top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

MPs consider banning anti-Zionism

"Hatred of Israel is a new way of hating Jews," claims leader of cross-party group considering political response to rising problem

MPs from all parties are considering whether to propose a bill to make anti-Zionism a crime in France, according to reports.

News of the plans came to light after philosopher and academic Alain Finkielkraut was the victim of allegedly anti-Semitic abuse on the sidelines of a gilets jaunes demonstration. The Paris public prosecutor has opened an investigation

A cross-party group - led by LREM's Paris deputy Sylvain Maillard - has been working on the bill for some weeks, franceinfo reports. Mr Maillard said that, "hatred of Israel is a new way of hating Jews".

"We can criticise the government of Israel, but we cannot question the very existence of this state. No one questions the existence of the French state or the German state," he said.

On Tuesday, he will propose to the 30-plus members of his group, to choose between two formulas: a resolution passed by the National Assembly to express a position, or a bill that will, he says, would take longer to implement.

They will make their decision on Tuesday afternoon, before Emmanuel Macron's speech at the dinner of the Conseil représentatif des institutions juives de France on Wednesday.

Stay informed:
Sign up to our free weekly e-newsletter
Subscribe to access all our online articles and receive our printed monthly newspaper The Connexion at your home. News analysis, features and practical help for English-speakers in France

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Healthcare in France*
Featured Help Guide
- Understand the French healthcare system, how you access it and how you are reimbursed - Useful if you are new to the French healthcare system or want a more in-depth understanding - Reader question and answer section Aimed at non-French nationals living here, the guide gives an overview of what you are (and are not) covered for. There is also information for second-home owners and regular visitors.
Get news, views and information from France