CONSTRUCTING MUSLIMS’ IDENTITY IN FRANCE’S PUBLIC DISCOURSE

Abstract

Identity is a very complex issue in France, and so is nationalism contentious in French politics. There are many people with an immigrant background in France, because this country one of the most attractive destination country in Europe for immigrants. This study discusses the issues of immigrant background by the case of Muslims living in France. In this sense, this study explores the issue of identity among French Muslims, and the role of public discourse in recognizing religion or culture vis-à-vis identity. The Republican model of citizenship and political ideas of French secularism portray Muslims as ‘unintegrated’ and ‘unfit’. Because their demand for religious freedom contradicts with what is considered as the civil religion of the French nation, laïcité principle. The French public discourse often questions Muslims with immigrant origin [in particular] in national belonging. Therefore, French state and society do not perceive Muslims as French because they believe that practicing Islam or raising such demand contradicts with the values of the French culture and citizenship model, which is in large exclusive and member-conditioning.