Quebec is “not alone” in its commitment to secularism, says French Prime Minister Attal

MONTREAL – French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal today expressed strong support for Quebec's model of state secularism, which has been criticized by the Canadian government.

Attal said at a news conference in Quebec City with Quebec Premier François Legault that France shares the province's commitment to religious intolerance.

The 35-year-old prime minister says secularism is a way for governments to guarantee equal treatment to citizens regardless of their personal beliefs.

Quebec's secular policy includes a 2019 law banning many public sector workers, including teachers and judges, from wearing religious symbols — legislation that critics say discriminates against religious minorities.

Secularism is also a key principle for France, where it is illegal to wear face coverings on the street.

Despite his support for Quebec's secular values, Attal said he did not discuss the issue in a meeting with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau this week, whose government has said it will join a Supreme Court challenge to the 2019 law.

The French prime minister is due to attend economic panels in Montreal this afternoon before wrapping up a three-day visit to Canada.

This Canadian Press report was first published on April 12, 2024.

Canadian Press