France's Controversial Language Tests Threaten 60,000 Foreign Residents

France's new language proficiency tests for foreign residents and citizenship applicants have drawn significant criticism for being excessively difficult, potentially causing 60,000 applicants to be denied permission to stay in the country. An investigation revealed that even well-educated native French speakers struggle with the tests, which require a proficiency level comparable to that of an 11- to 15-year-old. Previously, residency applicants only needed to sign an 'integration contract' to learn French, but the new law, part of a broader anti-immigration initiative, imposes stricter requirements and a €100 fee for the tests. Critics argue that the legislation, which is projected to affect over 330,000 people in its first year, is designed to ensure failure and disproportionately impacts those attempting to integrate into French society. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau defended the law, stating that foreigners unwilling to learn French after years in the country demonstrate a lack of effort. Protests against the law have erupted, highlighting concerns over its fairness and implications for immigrants' futures in France.