France’s far-right National Rally (RN) party plans to impose fines on women who wear the Islamic veil in public spaces if the party wins the 2027 presidential election.

 

Marine Le Pen's National Rally plans to "sanction" the wearing of the veil with a fine

France’s far-right National Rally (RN) party plans to impose fines on women who wear the Islamic veil in public spaces if the party wins the 2027 presidential election.

The proposal, a long-standing and controversial position of party leader Marine Le Pen, was officially confirmed as a settled party policy by RN lawmaker Jean-Philippe Tanguy during a television interview on August 30, 2026.

Key Details of the Proposal

• The Penalty: Wearing the veil in public streets would be treated similarly to a traffic violation, with violators receiving a fine. Tanguy compared the penalty to the fine imposed on drivers who do not wear a seat belt.
• The Justification: The party frames the ban as a mechanism to combat "Islamist ideology". Tanguy stated the measure is also intended as an act of solidarity with women worldwide who are forced to wear the veil.
• Potential Referendum: Following Tanguy's remarks, Marine Le Pen and party president Jordan Bardella indicated that they would propose a public referendum to decide on the ban.

Existing French Law vs. The New Proposal

France already maintains strict secularism (laïcité) laws regarding religious dress, but the RN proposal would significantly expand them:

Current French Legislation	National Rally (RN) Proposal
Religious symbols (including headscarves) are banned in state schools (established in 2004).	A total ban on the Islamic headscarf/veil in all public spaces, including open city streets.
Full-face veils (like the niqab or burqa) are banned in public for public safety and identification reasons (established in 2010).	Fines levied against anyone wearing a standard hijab or veil in public view.

Political Backlash & Legal Obstacles

The proposal has re-ignited intense cultural and political debate in France. Critics and political opponents, including President Emmanuel Macron, have previously warned that a total public ban on the headscarf would be unconstitutional, violate fundamental religious freedoms, and risk triggering deep social unrest.

Additionally, the feasibility of Le Pen's 2027 presidential bid remains uncertain. In July 2026, a Paris court found Le Pen guilty of embezzlement regarding fake jobs at the European Parliament, sentencing her to a five-year ban on holding public office. Le Pen is currently appealing the ruling, which would otherwise bar her from running in the upcoming election