Muslim Brotherhood in France: Is the Threat Real?

The text provides a critical analysis of the report of the French Ministry of the Interior “The Muslim Brotherhood and Political Islamism in France” (March 2025), dedicated to the activities of the Muslim Brotherhood (BM) movement in the country. The purpose of the study is to find out whether the document contains objective evidence of a threat from BM or serves as an instrument of political manipulation. The main problems identified in the report are: the weakness of the conceptual framework: the terms “Islamism”, “implementation”, and “comprehensive understanding of Islam” are interpreted vaguely, which makes it possible to arbitrarily classify any Muslims defending their identity as BM. The lack of clear criteria for identifying members of the movement: the hierarchical structure of the BM in France is actually blurred, and the ideological criterion is vague. Taking quotations out of context: the judgments of religious figures (Yu. al-Qaradawi, T. Ramadan) are presented in fragments, without taking into account the historical and political background. Contradictory conclusions: claims about the “solid infrastructure” of BM in France are refuted by data on the financial and organizational problems of affiliated non-profit organizations (NKO). Ignoring local dynamics: the report underestimates the role of internal factors (demographics, social status of Muslim communities) and overestimates the influence of transnational structures. Key conclusions: The report is politicized and is probably used to distract attention from the systemic problems of French society (migration, integration, social inequality). The BM structure in Europe is fragmented and weakening: there are financial difficulties, competition between Muslim networks (CEM vs MG), and the departure of old leaders. The importance of local initiatives of Muslim communities focused on solving everyday problems rather than on ideological mobilization is growing. Tensions remain between the Republican model of secularism and religious practices, leading to litigation and the risk of radicalization of individual groups. The key factors in the development of the situation will be the internal dynamics of French society and the pan-European migration policy, rather than the actions of individual organizations. Prospects: in the next 3–5 years, it is unlikely that a centralized threat from BM will appear in France. However, there will remain a high level of media and political confrontation around the topic of Islamism. A sustainable settlement of the conflict requires a transition from symbolic politics to systemic measures for integration and dialogue, which seems unlikely in the context of the polarization of society.

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