The French legislative elections resulted in the left-wing New Popular Front (NFP) winning, with President Macron’s centrist coalition coming in second and the far-right National Rally (RN) in third. With no outright majority for any bloc, France faces political uncertainty. The RN’s anti-immigration platform raised concerns for Muslims and immigrants in France. The RN’s proposed policies, including national preference and citizenship restrictions, were criticized for being xenophobic and Islamophobic.
Many in the French Muslim community fear restricted religious freedoms and discrimination. A study highlighted a brain drain among educated young Muslims facing racism and discrimination. Professionals have considered leaving the country, as they fear the RN’s policies. The mainstreaming of far-right policies in French politics has targeted minorities, including Muslims.
“Social cohesion is already in tatters and it’s just going to get worse. For the foreseeable future, French Muslims will remain the target of wider society and all political parties”
The normalizing of anti-Muslim rhetoric poses challenges for the Muslim community in France. Discriminatory measures against minorities, especially Muslims, have increased under Macron’s government. Tightening rules and crackdowns on religious symbols have fueled tensions. The rise of the far-right may lead to increased discrimination and violence against Arab-Muslims.
\