A group of around forty left-wing local officials have reopened the debate on the right to vote for foreign residents in local elections. Mayors such as Anne Hidalgo of Paris, Benoît Payan of Marseille, Nicolas Mayer-Rossignol of Rouen, and the mayors of Lyon, Grenoble, and Strasbourg have signed an appeal from the European collective Voting Rights for All Residents (VRAR). The group argues that democracy will only be complete when all residents can choose their representatives and make decisions that affect their daily lives at the local level. This movement is not limited to France, with thirteen European mayors also signing on, including those from Germany, the UK, Italy, and Switzerland.
The initiative is continental in nature, with the group J’y suis j’y vote…! planning to engage European election candidates. This movement has seen strong involvement from the French, in part due to the active mobilization of the National Association of Welcoming Cities and Territories, co-led by the mayor of Strasbourg. However, despite the widespread support, some mayors have been hesitant to speak publicly on the issue. While some, like Luc Carvounas, mayor of Alfortville, have openly supported the cause, others have cited busy schedules as a reason for their silence. Carvounas highlights the historical context of the issue, referencing a failed attempt to grant voting rights to immigrants at the local level during the presidency of François Hollande.
Despite François Mitterrand and François Hollande’s initial support for foreign residents’ voting rights in local elections, the legislation was not passed by the National Assembly. Carvounas laments this missed opportunity, as the bill was part of Hollande’s election platform but was not pursued once he took office. Many on the left regretted this decision, as it was seen as a way to signal a shift in policy priorities. The issue remains relevant today, with the VRAR collective and its supporters continuing to advocate for the full inclusion of foreign residents in the democratic process at the local level.
The debate over voting rights for foreign residents in local elections is not new in France. Similar efforts have been made in the past, with various levels of success. The broader question of citizenship and representation continues to be a hot topic in political discourse, with differing views on who should have the right to vote and under what conditions. The current push by the VRAR collective and its supporters reflects a broader trend towards greater inclusivity and the recognition of the rights of all residents, regardless of nationality.
In conclusion, the movement for the right to vote for foreign residents in local elections is gaining momentum in France and across Europe. The support from left-wing local officials, alongside similar initiatives in other countries, highlights the importance of this issue in the ongoing debate over citizenship and democracy. While some mayors remain hesitant to publicly support the cause, the overall trend towards greater inclusivity and representation for all residents is a positive step towards a more equitable and democratic society. As the debate continues, it will be important to consider the perspectives of all stakeholders and work towards a consensus that reflects the values of equality and participation in the democratic process.
