French Muslim school fights closure in court

Authorities accused the institution of violating ‘Republican values’

LYON, France (MNTV) — Al-Kindi, the only private Muslim high school in France with a state partnership, is appealing a government decision to terminate its contract before the administrative court of Lyon.

The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes prefecture announced the termination of Al-Kindi’s primary, middle, and high school contracts on January 10, citing allegations of promoting values “contrary to the Republic” and “defects and dysfunctions” uncovered during inspections.

An October 2024 inspection, following a prior visit in April, flagged concerns including two “radical” books in the school’s library, as reported by Morocco World News.

Authorities claimed one of the texts advocated “violent jihad.” 

Additionally, a teacher was criticized for online statements supporting “controversial” imams, some of whom were expelled from France. 

The school’s dress code, banning skin-tight clothing and makeup, was also labeled as discriminatory against girls.

Al-Kindi, which serves 620 students, has challenged these allegations multiple times. 

The school amended its rule book to eliminate gender distinctions and dismissed the teacher involved in the controversial remarks. 

Regarding the flagged books, Al-Kindi argued that the authorities misinterpreted their content, which includes traditional Islamic literature found in municipal libraries.

This case has raised concerns about potential Islamophobic bias in French regulations. 

Only two high schools in the country have lost their accreditation in the past 30 years—both Muslim institutions.

While Muslims schools face repeated inspections, Catholic schools are inspected only once every 15 years.

The outcome of Al-Kindi’s appeal may set a significant precedent for Muslim institutions in France as they navigate increasing scrutiny.