Features of the expatriation of French citizens: reasons, main directions

The article deals with the current state of the French emigration from France. It specifies the definition of this category of persons, in particular, the possibility of considering them “the French Diaspora”. It is emphasized that the distinctive feature of the French presence abroad is a developed network of cultural and educational institutions, “export” of the image of “brilliant France”, certain cultural and ideological values, lifestyle, “the art of living in French”, French products. Statistics on the number of French expatriates abroad and their distribution by country are provided. The reasons for moving of French people abroad are considered in detail: economic, professional, family. There are analyzed the features of “educational”, “professional” emigration, in particular to the USA. The characteristics of the “typical” French expatriate and his living conditions outside France are given. There are considered the measures that could contribute to the return of French researchers and young specialists to their homeland and get them interested in their work in France. First of all, this refers to formation of policies that would ensure mobility of scientists, researchers and teachers. It is planned to develop special contracts and programs aimed at returning postdoctoral students. The idea of creating an open data Bank on the French scientific and academic community, including in the United States, to establish closer ties and establish cooperation between the communities of scientists and specialists is popular. There is also a clear need to address the lack of statistics on the exact number of French researchers, scientists and information on their further employment. The article shows why strengthening ties with French expatriates should be one of the priorities of the French foreign policy.