The French Minister of National Education, Pap Ndiayesaid that nearly 500 cases of attacks on secularism have been reported last March.
This figure shows an increase compared to previous months, mainly due to the month of Ramadan according to the ministry. These attacks on secularism include the wearing of religious signs and attire, verbal provocations, teaching challenge, rejection of republican values et community demands in schools, colleges and high schools.
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The minister clarified that these figures have been falling since the peak in October, but are increasing every year during Ramadan. In October, 720 reports were recordedmainly related to the wearing of religious signs and attire, but this figure has fallen to 353 in November.
The minister also pointed out that the figures for the month of April are expected to drop due to the end of ramadan and spring break.
The Paris Mosque reacts
The Rector of the Mosque of Paris expressed Wednesday, May 10 his incomprehension after the remarks made by the Minister of National Education.
Rector @ChemsHafiz wrote to the Minister of National Education and Youth @PapNdiaye to tell him of his greatest incomprehension following the remarks he made this Sunday in a France 3 broadcast. (1/2) pic.twitter.com/6bZJFXqQm7
— Great Mosque of Paris (@mosqueedeparis) May 10, 2023
The Rector wrote to the ministry, expressing his concern about the discriminatory scope of this assertion and offering its readiness to discuss the matter with him.
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The Department of Education clarified the minister’s remarks, explaining that he never intended to stigmatize a religion. The remarks referred to reports from the ministry indicating an increase in attacks on secularism during certain religious holidays.
