French Court Overturns Ban on Major Muslim Gathering in Paris
Muslim Gathering Proceeds After Court Intervention
A significant gathering of Muslims in northern Paris is set to go ahead as planned after a French court dramatically overturned a government attempt to ban the event. The Paris police department had argued that the four-day Annual Encounter of Muslims of France constituted a security threat, citing potential terrorism risks.
However, the organisers, the Muslims of France (MF) association, successfully sought an emergency injunction, contending that a ban would infringe upon fundamental liberties. The administrative court concurred, revoking the government's decree just two hours before the scheduled 14:00 (13:00 BST) opening.
The court's ruling stated that the evidence provided by the police did not establish a risk of counter-demonstrations or that the gathering would be targeted by far-right groups. It also dismissed claims that the event would place an unacceptable strain on police resources, noting that organisers had arranged for additional security.
This cultural and religious conference, which also incorporates a trade fair, has not been held since 2019 but previously attracted tens of thousands of attendees from across Europe. The ban was sought amid a particularly tense international and national context, with authorities also expressing concerns about political agitation and potential foreign influence.
The decision comes as France plans a new "anti-separatism" law, aimed primarily at Muslim organisations perceived to be promoting ideas contrary to the principles of the republic. Critics of the MF association allege ties to the international Muslim Brotherhood, a claim the organisation denies.
