Marine Le Pen, the leader of France’s National Rally party and a frontrunner in the upcoming presidential election, has renewed her pledge to ban the wearing of Muslim headscarves in public. This announcement marks a return to the party’s more hardline stance following a recent court ruling that confirmed her eligibility to run in next year’s vote.
Le Pen, 58, who has sought the presidency three times since 2012, stated she plans to submit a bill via referendum aimed at combating what she describes as Islamist ideologies. The proposed legislation would include a ban on Islamist headscarves in all public spaces. This marks a reversal from her recent campaign strategy, where she had moderated her position in an effort to rebrand the former National Front as closer to the mainstream conservative political spectrum.
Her inner circle has reflected differing approaches to the issue. Jordan Bardella, her 30-year-old deputy who would have been a presidential candidate if Le Pen were disqualified, has generally advocated a more moderate stance, along with some other party members. Nevertheless, Le Pen’s team now appears united on this policy. Jean-Philippe Tanguy, a member of parliament and close ally of Le Pen, asserted that the wearing of headscarves has become "out of control" in France. He indicated that enforcement would be strict, with fines imposed on women who violate the ban, comparing the penalties to those for not wearing a seatbelt. Tanguy asserted that the headscarf is not merely a matter of personal dress freedom but represents an ideology inconsistent with French republican values.
The debate ties into a broader context of French policies toward religious symbols. France already prohibits the display of conspicuous religious signs, including headscarves, in public schools and government institutions. Public opinion appears to support a wider application of such restrictions. A survey conducted by CSA in March 2025 found that 69 percent of respondents favored banning Muslim head coverings in public places, while 31 percent opposed the measure.
The announcement has sparked discussions about secularism, religious freedom, and social integration in France. Supporters argue that the ban would reinforce the secular principles enshrined in the French Republic and help counter Islamist political influence. Critics contend that such measures unfairly target Muslim women and may deepen social divisions and discrimination.
Le Pen’s renewed focus on the headscarf issue underscores ongoing tensions in France over identity, religion, and national values, setting the stage for a contentious presidential campaign ahead.