PARIS — In the core of the French Republic, the longstanding principle of laïcité, ensuring the separation of church and state, is under significant strain. A comprehensive report by the Personal Representatives of the OSCE Chair-in-Office, following a visit in June 2025, depicts a nation where this foundational principle is increasingly perceived as a mechanism of exclusion, surveillance, and “securitization.”
The report, by Ambassador Evren Dağdelen Akgün, Rabbi Andrew Baker, and Professor Wolfgang Palaver, provides a critical evaluation of the “Current Challenges” facing France’s multifaceted religious environment. From the “atmosphere of antisemitism” in universities to the “collective punishment” reported by Muslim communities, the assessment suggests that France’s model of universalism is faltering amid increasing polarization and prejudice.
For France’s Jewish community—the largest in Europe, with over 500,000 members—the report outlines a persistent state of anxiety. The executive director of CRIF stated that almost every Jewish family has contemplated emigration.
The report describes a troubling campus “atmosphere,” where Jewish students report 10 to 20 violent incidents annually, often linked to pro-Palestinian activism. In secondary schools, severe bullying has prompted many families to withdraw their children from public institutions. The lack of religious data collection under French law means this migration remains unseen—a theme where the state’s “blindness” to religion impedes addressing specific issues.
While governmental reassurances persist—President Emmanuel Macron notably stated that “France without Jews would not be France”—community leaders are dissatisfied with a justice system that fosters a sense of “impunity.” Financially, the Jewish community bears the burden of its security through the SPCJ, a cost not shared with other groups.
In contrast, the Muslim community—France’s second-largest religious group with around 7 million members—feels targeted. The OSCE report outlines a growing “mistrust” between the state and Muslim citizens, spurred by civil society organizations (CSOs) claiming “securitization” of their faith.
The 2021 “separatism” law, intended to bolster Republican values, is seen by many as a tool for “collective punishment.” CSOs highlight the expulsion of imams and dissolution of organizations under unclear accusations. A striking disparity in justice is evident: while 1.2 million people in France consider themselves discrimination victims, only a few hundred cases are documented annually, with rare convictions—sometimes as few as zero to five yearly.
The report also underscores “normalized” media and political hostility. CNews, France’s most-watched news channel, is accused by civil society of broadcasting “80% anti-Muslim” content, often promoting the “great replacement” theory. Consequently, the Muslim community feels compelled to “constantly demonstrate their loyalty and innocence.”
A contentious section of the report examines the Interministerial Mission for Vigilance and Action Against Sectarian Aberrations (Miviludes). While most mainstream Christian denominations view Miviludes as a protective entity against “sects,” growing concerns arise about its methodology and impact on religious freedom.
The report cites a “lack of transparency” and absence of “right to reply” for targeted groups. It notes a double standard: activities acceptable from mainstream religions are deemed “aberrations” when performed by minority groups like Jehovah’s Witnesses or Scientologists.
The Church of Scientology faces acute tension. The 2025 Miviludes report labels it a “cult,” which the OSCE suggests “fuels discrimination and stigmatization.” Consequently, officials, including the Councilor for Religious Affairs, refuse to meet Scientology representatives, identifying them as a “cult.” This “dialogue difficulty” implies that, for certain groups, laïcité protections are effectively nullified.
The OSCE concludes that the “original approach” of the 1905 law, intended as a liberal separation framework, has become “anti-religious,” aiming to “eradicate all religious expression from the public domain.”
The 2004 ban on conspicuous religious symbols in schools exemplifies this shift. Though intended as universal, the report notes it “mainly targets minorities, particularly Muslims.” Sikh students face pressure to cut their hair and remove turbans for ID photos—a requirement not seen in Italy or Belgium.
The report addresses the plight of Roma and Sinti communities, who endure “widespread anti-Gypsyism” and “institutionalized segregation.” Travelers often lack basic rights like education and healthcare due to not having a fixed address, creating a “criminalization” of their nomadic lifestyle.
As France approaches the 2027 elections, the report warns of far-right discourse becoming “normalized” and embraced by mainstream parties. The French state’s “universalist approach” is perceived increasingly as an obstacle to justice rather than a safeguard.
“The norms on addressing racism and intolerance are good,” stated the Secretary General
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