Unprecedented wave of Muslim elite migration from France due to Islamophobia

Pars Today - The intensification of Islamophobia in France has led to an increase in the migration of Muslim elites from the country.

Despite France being home to the largest Muslim population in Europe, discrimination and growing Islamophobia have forced many Muslim elites to leave the country.

According to Pars Today citing a new study, out of every 10 Muslim elites who have left France, more than 7 have cited the intensification of Islamophobia as the main reason for their departure.

The study, conducted by the University of Lille under the leadership of Professor Olivier Esteves, notes that many Muslims with higher education are leaving France for destinations such as the UK, US, Canada, and the UAE.
Yasser Louati, a French political analyst and human rights defender, told Anadolu Agency that the lack of religious freedom is a reason for the migration of Muslim elites from France.

The trend of Islamophobia and increased pressure on Muslims in France has intensified in recent years. During the presidency of Emmanuel Macron, the right-wing president of France, these restrictions, along with the passage of multiple laws against Muslims and Islamic centers, have made life difficult for Muslims in the country.

In February 2022, the French government announced the formation of a new institution called the "French Islam Council" with the aim of integrating Muslims into French culture and society and combating extremism.
With the launch of the "French Islam Council", which is part of Macron's broader efforts to weaken Islam in France, the previous institution, known as the "French Muslim Religious Council", was dissolved.

Macron's approach is based on "aggressive secularism", which seeks to actively counter religion and religious manifestations in society.

Essentially, the French government has a negative view of Islam and supports any measures aimed at combating Islam, including the ban on Islamic headscarves in schools and now in Olympic competitions.

Key phrases: Situation of Muslims in France, Macron's view of Muslims, racial discrimination in France, Islamophobia in Europe, ban on hijab in France.

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