France moves to cut ties with its sole Muslim state-affiliated school Islamophobia in action

In a notable development concerning France's Muslim community, Al Kindi, the nation's only Muslim private high school operating under a state contract, is at risk of losing its official affiliation with the government.

This contract, which allows Al Kindi to receive state funding while maintaining its religious character, is reportedly under review by the Rhone Prefecture, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

While the specific reasons behind the move remain undisclosed, the implications could be far-reaching for the institution and the broader Muslim educational landscape in France.

The National Federation of Muslim Private Education has voiced strong objections to this potential revocation. Its president, Makhlouf Mamech, denounced what he described as discriminatory oversight and disproportionate controls targeting Muslim schools. According to Mamech, this decision reflects a broader pattern of systemic pressures on Muslim institutions in the country.

This controversy unfolds against the backdrop of rising Islamophobia in France. Incidents of violence and discrimination targeting Muslims have surged, heightening concerns about religious freedoms. On November 25, a shocking assault occurred in Lyon, where a 43-year-old Muslim woman wearing a hijab was attacked by two women, underscoring the volatile climate.

For many in France’s Muslim community, the scrutiny of Al Kindi is emblematic of broader challenges facing Islamic institutions. Critics argue that such actions hinder the integration of Muslim citizens and compromise their rights to education and religious expression. The final decision on Al Kindi’s status could set a precedent for other Muslim schools, shaping the future of religious inclusivity and educational equity in France.

By Tamilla Hasanova