Overview
- Macron, visiting Lavelanet hospital in Ariège on Monday, railed against red tape for non‑EU doctors and labeled advocates of a hard line with Algeria as “mabouls.”
- Pressed later in Andorra, he said he targeted no one and backed cooperation with Algeria, as the Élysée stressed that foreign‑trained clinicians are vital for strained hospitals.
- LR leader Bruno Retailleau escalated the clash on Wednesday with a public letter and TV remarks, calling the doctor example a “false pretext” and urging tougher action on deportations for OQTF cases.
- Government spokesperson Maud Bregeon said France can be firm without cutting contact, noting that Algerian readmissions under expulsion orders resumed last week after a year‑long halt.
- France counts 19,154 doctors trained outside the EU, roughly 39% educated in Algeria, and many keep rural services running yet face extra exams and delays that slow hiring and care.