Anti-Muslim Acts in France Increase by 75%, Attacks on Individuals Triple

Cologne – The French Interior Ministry has reported a dramatic surge in anti-Muslim incidents in the first five months of 2025, with a 75% increase compared to the same period last year.  

Violence targeting individuals has more than tripled, which raises fresh concerns about rising hostility toward religious minorities in the country.

From January through May, authorities recorded 145 anti-Muslim acts, up from 83 in 2024. 

The majority were direct assaults on people — 99 cases in total, compared to just 32 last year. These now represent more than two-thirds of all Islamophobic acts. 

The data confirms a sharp escalation in attacks that are no longer limited to property or insults, but often turn violent.

One case in particular shook the nation. In late April, Aboubakar Cissé, a young Malian man, was killed inside a mosque in southern France. His death sparked a wave of shock and sorrow, highlighting the vulnerability of Muslim communities amid growing tensions.

While Islamophobic acts have surged, antisemitic incidents, though fewer than in 2024, remain at a high level. Between January and May, 504 such acts were recorded, down from 662 the previous year. However, this still marks a 134% rise compared to the same period in 2023.

The Interior Ministry pointed out the “very high level” of antisemitic incidents. Most, 64%, targeted individuals, with 323 personal attacks logged. 

Among the victims was Rabbi Elie Lemmel, assaulted twice this spring. He attended the annual dinner of the CRIF (Representative Council of Jewish Institutions of France), where his presence drew long applause. 

Christians, too, have faced growing hostility. Authorities counted 322 anti-Christian acts so far in 2025, compared to 284 last year, a 13% increase. 

Most involved damage to churches and religious sites, with 271 cases representing 84% of the total. But violence against individuals has also nearly doubled, with 51 cases reported in just five months.

France, where nearly 9% of the population is Muslim, also hosts Europe’s largest Jewish community, with around half a million people, less than 1% of the population. Despite the relatively small size of these communities, the number of reported incidents paints a stark picture.

The figures released this week point to a climate of hostility that is far from marginal. 

Religious leaders, community advocates, and many citizens are demanding stronger measures to protect those targeted and to reaffirm the Republic’s promise of equality and safety for all.