French Muslim Group Warns Against Normalization of Anti-Muslim Hate Speech
French Muslim Group Warns Against Normalization of Anti-Muslim Hate Speech
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The Muslim Coordination of the Toulouse Metropolitan Area (CMAT) has issued a warning over what it describes as the growing normalization of anti-Muslim hate speech in France, urging political leaders to uphold republican values of freedom, justice, and national cohesion.
According to a report by IQNA, CMAT expressed concern over an increasingly divisive climate in public debate and political discourse that it says is contributing to the stigmatization of Muslim citizens. The organization noted that a rise in hostile rhetoric and policy proposals has created anxiety within Muslim communities and risks undermining social cohesion.
CMAT, which represents Muslim associations in the Toulouse region and is affiliated with the Coordination of Muslim Associations of France, has formally contacted members of parliament from the Haute-Garonne department. In its communication, the group warned that repeated attacks against Muslims threaten core principles of the French Republic and the rule of law.
The organization stated that public discourse has gradually hardened over recent years, with secularism increasingly being invoked in ways that, it argues, justify exclusion rather than equality. CMAT said this instrumentalization of laïcité has contributed to a hostile environment that conflicts with France’s constitutional values.
Calling for vigilance and responsibility, CMAT urged lawmakers to oppose any measures that could restrict freedoms, promote stigmatization, or infringe on freedom of conscience and worship. The group emphasized that defending civil liberties is essential to counter populism and extremism.
As part of a broader initiative, CMAT joined other civil society actors in publishing an open letter addressed to Senate President Gérard Larcher. The letter denounced what it described as the trivialization of certain legislative proposals and public statements perceived as targeting Muslims.
CMAT stressed that the fight against hatred and discrimination extends beyond religious concerns and affects all citizens. The organization called on the public to reject division driven by fear and prejudice, reaffirming that national cohesion depends on respect for justice, integrity, and fundamental freedoms.
