A draft of a new law aimed at combating Islamic extremism was introduced by the French government Wednesday.
The proposed law targets places like home schools and mosques that teach principles counter to French values, according to the Associated Press. President Emmanuel Macron has spoken recently about a need to rid France of “separatists” that are undermining the country. (RELATED: Police Launch Investigation After Swastika Found In German Parliament Building)
The law would outlaw homeschooling past the age of three outside of “special cases” and more strongly encourage mosques to register as places of worship and not just “associations,” the AP reports. It also takes steps to prevent arranged or otherwise coercive marriages, and forbids those convicted of crimes like provoking terrorism from frequently visiting mosques, reports the AP.
Macron vows to rein in Islamist separatists who reject French law https://t.co/8ETjqzkFvl
— Yadu Singh (@dryadusingh) October 3, 2020
The move comes in the wake of a string of terror attacks in France and Austria. Macron has spoken out strongly against radical Islamism since the attacks in his country, sparking backlash from some in the Muslim community. (RELATED: Brother Of Terrorist Who Killed 22 At Ariana Grande Concert Admits To Helping Plan Attack)
While the new bill does not explicitly mention Islam or Muslims, Prime Minister Jean Castex says the bill is one of “emancipation from Islamist fundamentalism.” Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti also reportedly said one measure of the bill is inspired by the killing of schoolteacher Samuel Paty, who showed students cartoons mocking the Prophet Mohamed and was later murdered by an Islamic terrorist.