Description
This paper examines the evolution of French counterterrorism narratives, emphasising the disproportionate impact of France's approach to terrorism on specific social groups. The global security landscape has witnessed a profound transformation shaped by the concepts of radicalisation and violent extremism, which have become central to security programs worldwide, resulting in the globalisation of anti-radicalisation measures. Despite initial resistance, France aligned itself with the international discourse on radicalisation in 2014, following the lead of numerous EU countries. This alignment allowed the French government to legitimise stringent control over youth, ethnic, and religious minorities, framing policing measures within the context of the global war on terror. Through an analysis of the evolution of French counterterrorism legislation and national Preventing Violent Extremism (PVE) plans, this paper highlights how French anti-radicalisation measures exacerbate existing religious, ethnic, and class divisions.
