French Government Rejects Minister's Push to Ban Islamic Veil in Universities and School Outings
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau's proposals to extend restrictions on religious symbols face legal and political obstacles, despite public support.
- Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau proposed banning the Islamic veil for university students and school outing chaperones, citing concerns over laïcité and gender equality.
- The French government, led by Prime Minister François Bayrou, announced it would not pursue these measures, citing a lack of parliamentary majority and potential legal challenges.
- A CSA poll revealed that 78% of French citizens support such bans, highlighting widespread public backing across political and demographic groups.
- Critics from the left and legal experts argue that the proposals contradict constitutional protections for religious freedom and could be deemed unconstitutional by the Conseil d'État.
- Retailleau's statements are seen as part of a broader shift toward stricter interpretations of laïcité, influenced by right-wing and far-right political narratives.
La Croix 
Le Journal du Dimanche 
Libération 
Ouest-France 