On March 12, 2025, the French National Assembly witnessed significant tension as deputy Raphaël Arnault of La France Insoumise (LFI) organized a round table aimed at "Understanding Islamophobia to Better Combat It." The event attracted controversy primarily because it included members of the Collectif contre l’islamophobie en Europe (CCIE), which many accuse of being the European counterpart of the previously dissolved Collectif contre l’islamophobie en France (CCIF).
Bruno Retailleau, Minister of the Interior, sharply criticized the invitation to the CCIE, referring to it as the "faux nez européen du CCIF" and stating, "LFI continues to indulge its unacceptable proximity to Islamists." Retailleau's comments reflect broader concerns among right-leaning political figures about the perceived normalization of groups linked to radical ideologies within the Assembly.
Ahead of the event, two UDR deputies, Hanane Mansouri and Matthieu Bloch, sent out communications urging the president of the Assembly, Yaël Braun-Pivet, to intervene and prevent the CCIE from entering the legislative chamber. Their appeal indicated, "If members of this organization were to enter the Assembly, it would be a real slap to the Republic." Despite their requests, Braun-Pivet maintained the meeting could proceed, stating, "After conducting the necessary checks, it appeared the meeting could take place as long as the rules of conduct required in a democratic arena were respected." This stance diverged sharply from her past actions, where she uninvited other controversial figures.
The event kicked off around 15:30 and quickly became contentious, with accusations thrown back and forth between members of LFI and the UDR. Deputy Vincent Jeanbrun openly confronted the LFI, accusing them of "making the apologia of terrorism and terrorists" during the questions session. LFI's response, facilitated by Patrick Mignola, emphasized the need for parliamentary civility and focused on the procedural jurisdiction of the Assembly's bureau.
Disruptions peaked during the round table itself when UDR deputies attempted to gain access, led by Mansouri, who brandished legal documentation citing the CCIF's dissolution as grounds for opposition. Upon their arrival, Arnault, visibly irked, insulted his colleagues, calling them "racists" and directing them to leave. Video footage captured the chaos, showing Arnault denouncing the deputies amid shouts of "Go home, racists!"
Mansouri later reported feeling "insulted" and "blocked outside the room" which she claimed should be "open to all deputies". The situation intensified as she and her allies were escorted out, with Arnault allegedly shouting, "I hope you have shame!" to the ejected deputies.
Public reactions on social media reflected deep divisions, with the UDR repeating their stance against the presence of such organizations, asserting, "Our Assembly deserves more than to host Islamist associations." On the other side, LFI took to social media to proclaim their commitment to combating Islamophobia, stating, "We will not allow a violent minority of far-right deputies to dictate the rules to the National Assembly."
Mathilde Panot, head of the LFI group, added fuel to the fire by addressing Braun-Pivet, requesting possible sanctions against what she termed "disruptive behavior" from the UDR deputies. This request highlighted the contentious atmosphere within the Assembly, where differing visions of what constitutes democracy and free speech clash. Many observers noted the ability of certain marginalized groups to express their perspectives often felt stifled amid the broader political maneuvering.
The tensions at the round table not only reflect current political divisions but also highlight the challenges surrounding the discourse on Islamophobia within France. The Assembly's handling of the CCIE's attendance may set precedents for future engagements with controversial groups and could galvanize broader public interest.
Advocacy groups such as La France Insoumise argue their engagement with the CCIE is necessary to address structural Islamophobia within France, stating, "Our fight against Islamophobia will not weaken." Yet, definitive public opinion remains hardened, with many viewing such gatherings as detrimental to the country's unity. It is clear the discussions surrounding Islamophobia and extremism will continue to ignite fervent debate within France's political arena.