Islamophobia and Counter-Terrorism in France: Political Discourses Under Hollande and Macron After the 2015 Paris Attacks

Abstract

This study examines how anti-terrorism policies under Hollande and Macron reflect distinct narratives concerning Islam and Islamophobia in France. Applying Critical Discourse Analysis and drawing on ideological divergence, the research analyzes the interplay between political rhetoric, policy, and perceptions of the Muslim community. While Hollande emphasized humanitarian values alongside security measures indirectly affecting Muslims, Macron adopted an assertive stance against "Islamist separatism," leading to policies criticized for institutionalizing Islamophobia. This research argues that Macron's policies and administration align with conservative and nationalist tendencies, evident in his securitized approach and rhetoric echoing far-right narratives shifting closer towards islamophobia. The study highlights the challenges of balancing security with human rights, revealing how political discourse shapes public sentiment and impacts marginalized communities.