Chicago – July 02, 2024
France faces a pivotal moment as the general elections starting this Sunday could bring the far-right to power. This shift could push the country into unknown political waters and severely impact minority communities, especially Muslims.
French Muslims, who make up 10 percent of the population, are deeply concerned. They feel their already limited space in society might shrink even further. Many are deciding whether to vote for left-wing parties or not vote at all. A survey by French pollster IFOP revealed that 59 percent of Muslim voters abstained in the European elections, while 62 percent who voted chose the left-wing La France Insoumise (LFI) party.
Islamophobia has sharply increased in France recently, with numerous anti-Muslim policies and actions, such as bans on headscarves and a crackdown on mosques. A far-right victory, especially by the RN party and its allies, is alarming due to their strong anti-Muslim stance. This election is crucial for French Muslims as they navigate their place in society amidst rising discrimination.
