In a new sociological study, Professor Olivier Esteves explores the experiences of French Muslims living abroad and how they have found social advancement in places like London, Dubai, New York, Casablanca, Montreal, or Brussels. The research sheds light on the discrimination and stigma faced by these individuals due to their religion or name.
Based on a survey of over 1,000 people and 140 in-depth interviews, the study reveals that French Muslims living abroad find greater opportunities for social mobility than they do in France. They also experience the “right to indifference,” allowing them to simply feel French without being stigmatized or discriminated against based on their religious beliefs.
The author of this research is Professor Olivier Esteves who specializes in Britain, ethnicity, and migration at the University of Lille. He focuses on the upbringing, experiences, and perspectives of these French Muslims living abroad.
As we approach an election campaign where the National Rally is a potential winner, Professor Esteves discusses the impact of Islam and racism on the French political landscape. He addresses issues such as Marine Le Pen’s views on French identity, the impact of secularism on integration, and the flight of Muslims from France.
France’s secularism is defined by the state as a way to emancipate from the Muslim religion but it is critiqued as incompatible with democracy. The discrimination faced by French Muslims contributes to a brain drain and economic loss as well as a loss of reputation for France. Furthermore, this study examines the relationship between Jews and Muslims in France citing that fighting all forms of racism is essential for equality and integration.
In conclusion, this study calls for a reevaluation of France’s secularism
