** The Islamophobic climate in France: between resistance discourse and calls for protection **
On April 29, 2025, Chems-Eddine Hafiz, rector of the Grande Mosque de Paris, and Najat Benali, president of the coordination of Muslim associations in Paris, were received by President Emmanuel Macron. This meeting occurs in a particularly delicate context, marked by growing tensions around the Muslim community in France, exacerbated by the tragic murder of Aboubakar Cissé in a Mosque in Gard. This drama has raised concerns about the use of violence against the practitioners of a specific faith and the perception that this community could have of the general security climate in the country.
The institutions represented during this meeting clearly expressed their concern in the face of an “ambient Islamophobic climate”, an observation shared by many observers. This situation calls for a reflection on the way in which the media and political leaders deal with acts of violence aimed at members of the Muslim community in France. The remark of representatives on the “non-qualification” of the murder of Aboubakar Cissé in a terrorist attack raises the question of the coherence of political discourse in matters of security and equality before the law. This also raises questions about the impact that these discourses can have on the perception of religious minorities, the growing anxiety of Muslims and the possibility of an ostracism in connection with manifestations of their faith.
The support of President Macron, who recognized that “racism and hatred because of religion will never have their place in France”, is a strong message that could help to appease tensions. However, concrete acts will have to follow these declarations to establish confidence between Muslim institutions and the State. The promise of strengthening the protection of places of worship is a first step, but it must be accompanied by a continuous and constructive dialogue to treat the roots of these fears and guarantee a safe environment for all.
The meeting was also an opportunity to raise the expectations of Muslim institutions towards the state. The feeling of insecurity, noticeable not only outside the mosques but also inside them, requires a rapid and effective response. It is not only a question of physical protection, but also a need for equality in the treatment of acts of violence and condemnation of hate speeches, which can sometimes seem more tolerated towards certain communities.
In this context, the recent minute of silence observed by the National Assembly in tribute to Aboubakar Cissé, although it marks an awareness of the question, must be translated into specific policies of prevention and fight against anti-Muslim hatred as well as the establishment of educational measures aimed at promoting respect and mutual understanding between all confessions.
Institutions such as the forum of Islam of France (FOIF) hope that exchanges with the authorities will lead to tangible initiatives, making it possible to strengthen the link between the government and the Muslim communities. The diversity of voices within this community, as well as their active role in public dialogue, can be an essential lever to build bridges between different religious sensitivities in France.
In short, recognizing the claims of Muslim communities and responding to legitimate concerns concerning security and recognition of their faith are challenges that the French government cannot ignore. The fight against disinformation and isolation of minorities through respectful communication and a commitment to equal rights must become priorities to feed inclusive citizenship in a country of religious pluralism. This could be the way towards social reconciliation, by listening, protection and mutual respect.