France’s Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has reiterated his support for banning the hijab in universities, reigniting debate over secularism and religious expression in public institutions.

Speaking on Les Grandes Gueules on RMC, Retailleau said he wants current restrictions on religious symbols in schools extended to higher education. “There is a form of Islamism that doesn’t reflect traditional Muslim faith,” he claimed, stressing the need to address political expressions of religion.

His comments come shortly after President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed France’s commitment to religious freedom and the protection of all faith communities, including Muslims.

Retailleau emphasized that his proposal is not intended to marginalize Muslims. “As Minister of the Interior and of Religious Affairs, I understand the sensitivity of the issue,” he said. “We must clearly distinguish between religious faith and political Islamism.”

France has long upheld a strict version of secularism (laïcité), banning visible religious symbols in public secondary schools since 2004. Full-face coverings are also prohibited, but university students are currently allowed to wear religious attire.

In contrast, Higher Education Minister Philippe Baptiste defended students' rights to express their beliefs, stating that while public employees must remain neutral, students are free to wear religious symbols as long as they respect the Republic's values.

Retailleau’s stance is expected to draw criticism from civil rights advocates and religious groups both in France and abroad.