France Bans “I Am a Young Muslim” Book, Launches Judicial Investigation

France Bans “I Am a Young Muslim” Book, Launches Judicial Investigation
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French authorities have banned the circulation of the book “I Am a Young Muslim”, aimed at minors, amid concerns that it promotes hate and violence. The move has sparked widespread public debate.

Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin referred the book to the public prosecutor following a report from the Youth Protection Directorate. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he emphasized the need to protect children from all forms of physical, psychological, and sexual violence, as well as from exploitation and ideological indoctrination.

The book, authored by Ahmed bin Mubarak bin Qadhlan Al Mazrouei, presents itself as a “guide to proper conduct” for young Muslim girls and includes advice such as avoiding Western-style clothing and limiting interactions with unrelated males.

The ban was issued under the French law of 16 July 1949, which regulates publications for youth, prohibiting content that endangers minors or incites discrimination or hatred. The law also establishes a specialized committee to review youth publications and submit recommendations, with the Interior Minister authorized to prohibit materials that violate these rules.

The Interior Minister officially banned the book on 23 February 2026, with the prohibition set to take effect from 27 February 2026. A judicial investigation has been opened to examine the content and potential legal violations.