The Minister of Justice, Éric Dupond-Moretti, called in a directive dated Tuesday and sent to prosecutors for “a very reactive criminal response” in the event of a breach of the principle of secularism in schools. The text of the Keeper of the Seals comes two days after the ban announced by the Minister of Education Gabriel Attal of the abaya in schools.
Recalling the law of March 15, 2004 on signs or clothing showing religious affiliation in schools, the circular stresses that “the abuses that could be committed in the context of the implementation of these instructions will necessarily call for a very reactive criminal response “.
298 students in abaya on Monday
Thus, the offense “which criminalizes separatist threats and violence” may be retained “in the event of threatening, violent or intimidating behavior committed with the aim of obtaining an adaptation of the rules of operation of the public service”, indicates the text.
“The most serious facts will require a rapid and firm response”, continues the circular which, if it recalls the “Republican framework in the school space”, does not expressly mention the abaya, these long dresses of Middle Eastern tradition worn above the clothes and at the heart of a controversial government decision.
Monday, back to school day, of the 6.4 million schoolchildren, 3.4 million college students and 2.2 million high school students, 298 students showed up at their school in abaya despite the ban, according to Attal, and ” 67 did not agree” to withdraw it and “went home”.
Attacks on secularism are increasing according to the State
In its circular, the Chancellery also asks for “a firm, rapid and systematic response to the offenses committed against teachers and National Education staff”.
According to a note from the state services, of which AFP obtained a copy, attacks on secularism, much more numerous since the assassination of Samuel Paty in 2020, increased by 120% between the school years 2021-2022 and 2022-2023.
The wearing of signs and outfits showing a religious affiliation, which represents the majority of attacks, has increased by more than 150% throughout the last school year.