The book “La France, tu l’aimes mais tu la quittes” by Olivier Esteves, Alice Picard, and Julien Talpin explores the diaspora of French Muslims who choose to settle abroad. In an interview, Olivier Esteves, a specialist in English cultures and societies at the University of Lille, discusses the main findings of their research. They estimate that there are tens of thousands of French Muslims living abroad, although an exact number is difficult to determine due to the lack of religious statistics in France and the fact that many French citizens living abroad do not register with consulates. The focus of their study was not so much on how many French Muslims are leaving, but rather on why they are choosing to do so.
One of the primary reasons cited by French Muslims for leaving France is to escape the “atmospheric Islamophobia” that has become increasingly pervasive in French society. This Islamophobia has been exacerbated by negative media portrayal and political discourse following the 2015 terrorist attacks. Discrimination, particularly in the workplace, also plays a role in the decision to leave. Certain groups within the Muslim community, such as women who wear the veil and converts who have experienced newfound discrimination in adulthood, are especially vulnerable to stigmatization and thus more likely to seek opportunities abroad. While the desire to escape Islamophobia is a major motivator for leaving, there are often other supplementary reasons as well, such as seeking religious fulfillment in a Muslim-majority country, learning English, or pursuing new career opportunities.
The decision to leave France is not always driven by a single factor, and individuals may have a combination of reasons for relocating. In addition to escaping discrimination and seeking new opportunities, some French Muslims also choose to settle abroad out of a sense of adventure or to improve their English language skills. The researchers note that there is a variety of motivations among those who decide to move, with some prioritizing religious considerations, while others are more focused on personal or professional development. Overall, the decision to emigrate is a complex one that is shaped by a combination of factors, including personal experiences of discrimination, societal attitudes towards Islam, and individual aspirations for the future.
The study sheds light on the experiences of French Muslims who have chosen to leave their home country and settle abroad. By examining the factors that influence their decision to emigrate, the researchers provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by this diaspora community. In doing so, they contribute to a better understanding of the impact of Islamophobia and discrimination on the lives of French Muslims, as well as the diverse motivations that drive individuals to seek new opportunities beyond France. Ultimately, the book offers a nuanced portrayal of the complex reasons behind the decision to leave, highlighting the importance of exploring individual experiences and motivations within the broader context of migration and societal change.
