A human rights commission report revealed that racism cases in France surged by 32% in 2023.
The French National Consultative Commission on Human Rights (CNCDH) highlighted a decline in tolerance towards minority groups, particularly Jewish and Muslim communities.
The Interior Ministry noted a significant rise in antisemitic incidents, which increased by 284%.
The CNCDH attributed these figures to factors like Israeli attacks on Gaza and debates on asylum and migration.
According to the statistical office, 1 million people faced at least one racist attack in 2023.
The report also showed a shift in public sentiment, with 51% of French citizens feeling they no longer belong in their country, an eight-point increase since spring 2022.
Additionally, 56% believe there are “too many immigrants in France,” up by seven points from the previous year.
This data underscores the influence of the far-right National Rally (RN) party, which secured over 30% of the vote in the June European Parliament elections.
RN’s success led President Emmanuel Macron to dissolve parliament and call for snap elections.
RN leader Jordan Bardella pledged to tackle migration issues, arguing it strains public finances and the social security system.
He aims to curb immigration, end birthright citizenship, deport criminal foreigners, and address economic challenges.
The elections are scheduled for June 30 and July 7.
