French Muslim councils file complaint over poll they say fuels anti-Muslim hatred
Several Muslim religious councils in France have filed a legal complaint against an Ifop survey, claiming it misrepresents French Muslims
PARIS (AA) — Several Muslim religious councils in France have filed a legal complaint against an Ifop survey, claiming it misrepresents French Muslims and contributes to growing anti-Muslim hostility.
The poll, commissioned by the little-known magazine Ecran de veille and published on Nov. 18, claims a rise in “re-Islamisation” among French Muslims, particularly youth. It highlights what it calls “radical” behaviors — including regular prayer, observing Ramadan, and wearing the veil — framing them as signs of extremism, according to the councils.
In a joint statement Sunday, the departmental councils of Muslim worship in Loiret, Aube, and Bouches-du-Rhône said the survey “violates the principle of objectivity” under France’s 1977 opinion polling law, BFM TV reported.
They argued it relied on “leading questions” and selectively amplified minority responses “for polemical purposes.”
Lawyers Raphaël Kempf and Romain Ruiz, representing the councils, described Ecran de veille as a “nebulous and reactionary organisation,” adding that the study “spreads the poison of hatred” at a time when anti-Muslim acts have risen by 75% compared with 2024, according to Interior Ministry data.
The councils said the survey reinforces harmful stereotypes and echoes narratives often promoted by far-right media.
“This poll, picked up by several far-right media outlets, is an insult to Muslims in France and an affront to the values of equality and fraternity promoted by our Republic,” the complaint said.
The publication has sparked debate amid heightened tensions in France over religion and politics.
While far-right figures cite the survey as proof of a supposed “threat,” Muslim organisations say it reflects a longstanding pattern of portraying Muslims as a problem for the Republic.
Prosecutors have launched a preliminary investigation into the complaint.
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