François Héran
Scholars and politicians in the face of immigration
“The academic not only has the right to contribute to the public debate on the issue of migration, but also a duty to do so.”
Can the academic remain above the fray when addressing an issue as contentious as the place of immigration in our societies? Faced with arguments seeking to persuade us that France, being too generous, is allowing itself to be overwhelmed by migratory flows, the academic must assess the situation by conducting rigorous analyses.
François Héran rises to the challenge. Whilst the rise in immigration is a significant trend, France is by no means the most attractive country in Europe. The ‘pull factor’ created by our social welfare system is a myth.
By challenging preconceived notions, the scholar inevitably comes into conflict with politicians who interfere in the scientific sphere and sway public opinion with statistical arguments. In doing so, he reminds us that taking research findings into account in public debate is not an option, but a necessity.
Héran F., ‘Facing Immigration: The Scholar and the Politician’, Paris, Collège de France, ‘Closing Lectures ’ series, 2026, 152 pp.
ISBN: 978-2-7226-0879-5
Price: €10
Publication date: 16 April 2026
