When I started out, it was rare to see elected representatives with foreign roots. Often, I was relegated to my origins, put in the diversity box: 'You're the new face of diversity.' That annoyed me because I always felt French, and suddenly I was being made to feel I wan't as French as others.

I'm aware that beyond my own need to find a personal balance, I should be sending a signal to society as women's minister about the importance of work-life balance.

I feel totally French - I don't feel half-French because of my dual nationality. For me, dual nationality just means I don't deny my roots.

Najat Vallaud-Belkacem Quotes