Restrictions on Muslims Intensify in France as Suspicion Toward Islamic Identity Grows Ahead of Elections

Restrictions on Muslims Intensify in France as Suspicion Toward Islamic Identity Grows Ahead of Elections
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As right-wing movements gain influence in France, the country’s social and political climate has become increasingly difficult for Muslims, with many Islamic institutions facing new restrictions.

According to Al Jazeera, experts have warned that the French government’s recent policies are turning Muslim religious practice and public presence into matters of suspicion.

A recent article published by the French outlet Orient XXI cited Haoues Seniguer, a researcher on religion and politics, as saying that the French state is no longer only confronting extremism, but is also monitoring any visible expression of Islamic identity.

According to the report, restrictions on Islamic educational institutions, the revocation of licenses for some religious centres, and proposals to ban the hijab in public spaces are among the measures associated with Paris’s new policies.

The report also stated that France’s Interior Ministry recorded a 75 percent increase in Islamophobic and anti-Muslim acts in 2025.

A report by France’s rights commissioner also showed that Muslims face discrimination more than other religious groups, while many do not file complaints because of distrust in official institutions.