The IFOP Survey and the on Covert Islamist Organizations

 

On November 18, 2025, IFOP published the Covert Infiltration Index, the second phase of a broader survey on Islam and Islamism in France. Conducted for Écran de Veille and Global Watch, the research builds on an earlier publication released on November 13, 2025, and reflects institutional risk analysis rather than political activism.

The survey examines patterns of covert organizational influence, focusing on structures and strategies rather than religious belief. This distinction is central to the current policy debate. The Muslim Brotherhood is assessed as a political project operating through organized networks—not as a faith movement—raising questions of transparency, accountability, and compliance with republican law.

As France approaches parliamentary consideration of a draft law scheduled for January 22, 2026, the IFOP data contributes to informed debate. Ignoring such research would not constitute tolerance, but negligence. In democratic systems, laws follow evidence, assessments, and public discussion—not fear or slogans.

Legal clarity serves multiple purposes. It reinforces laïcité, protects civic equality, and prevents arbitrary enforcement by establishing clear institutional boundaries. Importantly, it also safeguards Muslim citizens from political instrumentalization by separating religious life from covert political organization.

France’s approach aligns with broader European discussions and security evaluations. By grounding policy in independent research and judicial oversight, the republic affirms that transparency is an obligation—and that secrecy within political organizations remains a legitimate concern under the rule of law.