By Abdullahi Yusuf
The French government has officially recognized the role of an imam as a profession, adding it to the list of occupations by the French Employment Agency.
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau made the announcement during the closing session of the second meeting of the French Islam Forum (FORIF), highlighting the significance of the recognition.
Retailleau said dialogue between the state and Muslim religious representatives should be based on trust and responsibility. He emphasized that Muslims reject the distortion of their faith by extremist ideologies.
While affirming that the state should not interfere in religious institutions, Retailleau noted that it can provide support. As part of the initiative, the role of an imam has been formally included in the official list of recognized professions in France.
He described the move as a historic step, marking the first such recognition in the country.
Additionally, he announced the creation of an official job description and employment contracts for imams, providing a structured framework for their work.
Retailleau also addressed concerns about Islamophobia in France, revealing that 173 anti-Muslim attacks were recorded last year.
He acknowledged, however, that the actual number is likely higher due to underreporting by victims. To combat the crimes, the government will introduce a new complaint platform dedicated to reporting Islamophobic incidents.
Muslim chaplains working in hospitals and the military will now be officially recognized as part of public service, ensuring their roles are formally acknowledged within state institutions.
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