with the HKS French Chapter

Immigration,

Between Perception and Reality

With Benoît Hamon

Tuesday, June 24th, 2025

7:30 pm - 10:30 pm

How do political narratives around immigration diverge from actual migration patterns and lived experiences?

How can we move beyond the crisis framing of migration and recognize the contributions and innovations of displaced populations?

The Harvard Club of France and the Harvard Kennedy School French Chapter are honored to welcome Benoît Hamon,  former French presidential candidate and current Director General of SINGA Global and President of ESS France, for a talk on "Immigration, between Perception and Reality" .

Delving into the complexities of immigration, contrasting public perceptions with on-the-ground realities, Benoît Hamon will offer insights into policy challenges, societal narratives, and the role of civil society in fostering inclusive integration.

We will explore how public policy can reconcile national concerns with the global imperative to protect human dignity and mobility and how to address the blind spots in mainstream immigration discourse across sectors.

A cocktail will be offered where the participants can continue their discussion with Benoît Hamon.

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Benoît Hamon is the Director General of SINGA Global and President of ESS France, the leading platform for social and solidarity economy actors in France. A former Minister of Education and Member of the European Parliament, he has long been a champion of social justice, democratic innovation, and inclusive policies. In 2017, he ran as a candidate in the French presidential elections, bringing forward a vision rooted in ecological transition and universal basic income. Today, Benoît works to accelerate systemic change by supporting inclusive entrepreneurship and inclusion across Europe. He brings a unique blend of political experience and grassroots commitment to building a more cohesive, participatory society.