The proposed separatist law, also referred to as the “Law to Reinforce Republican Values”, continues to move through the legislative system in France. The proposed law is designed to stem radical Islam that has been at the root of numerous terrorist attacks in France, and, if enacted, would place restrictions on the freedom of worship in France. The CNEF (Conseil National des Evangéliques de France) estimates that, if approved, any application of the law would not take place until Spring 2022, given the time to create statutes and methods to enforce the law.
Impact France summarizes the current status of the deliberations:
Discussions have concluded and the bill is entering the final stages of the National Assembly vote which is projected to be at the end of June. The version of the law that is currently in the Assembly is NOT the version the Senate passed but the Assembly’s original bill that they approved. This final version of the bill will be sent to the Senate where the same process will take place (discussions, debates, vote). To learn more about the evolution of the process click here (in French).
The CNEF is still working with different parliamentarians and advocating for the rights of the Church. Even if the “spirit of the law” doesn’t change, the CNEF is hopeful that the amendments and concrete measures to apply the law will not move France into a surveillance state when it comes to faith. The passage of the law is also dependent on the Constitutional Counsel – which can be another safeguard.
Click for news source and further information from ImpactFrance.org.
May the Church in France be faithful to Her witness, and may the Lord give wisdom to church leaders of the CNEF, in particular, as they engage with government leaders regarding the potential impact of this law.