The Rassemblement National party plans to impose fines on women wearing the Islamic veil in public spaces if it wins the presidency [1].
The proposal signals a significant escalation in the party's approach to secularism and religious expression in France. By moving from political rhetoric to financial penalties, the party aims to institutionalize its opposition to visible religious symbols in the streets.
Jean-Philippe Tanguy, a deputy for the RN and lieutenant to Marine Le Pen, announced the plan on Sunday. Tanguy said the measure is necessary because the use of the veil has become uncontrolled [2]. He said that the party intends to target the veil as part of a broader strategy to fight Islamist ideology [1].
The proposed sanctions would apply to women in public areas, including streets, and other public venues [2]. According to Tanguy, the party will sanction the wearing of the veil [3]. This policy is designed for implementation following the presidential election scheduled for 2027 [4].
Critics have already responded to the announcement. Valérie Pécresse said the measure is demagogic and impractical [5]. The proposal highlights the deep divide in French politics regarding the interpretation of laïcité, the state principle of secularism.
While France already bans face coverings, such as the niqab, in public, this proposal would extend penalties to the hijab, which covers the head but leaves the face visible. The RN argues that this step is essential to maintain public order and national identity [1].
The party has not yet released the specific monetary value of the proposed fines or the exact mechanism for enforcement. However, the announcement serves as a cornerstone for the party's platform as it prepares for the 2027 contest [4].
“"Nous allons évidemment combattre l'idéologie islamiste."”
This proposal represents a shift from banning religious symbols in specific state-run institutions, such as schools, to a general prohibition in all public spaces. If implemented, it would likely face immediate challenges in French and European courts over freedom of religion and personal liberty. The timing suggests the RN is positioning itself to mobilize its base by focusing on identity politics ahead of the 2027 election.
