France: Muslim Theology School Condemns Dissolution Attempt by Government

IQNA – A Muslim theology school in France slammed the government’s push to dissolve it, warning it would have consequences.

More than a week after its assets were frozen, the European Institute of Human Sciences (IESH) now faces a potential dissolution. In a statement released Monday evening, the Saint-Léger-de-Fougeret-based institution condemned the move, warning of its «serious consequences» and calling it «incomprehensible given [its] mission».

The IESH said that if the dissolution is enforced, it will immediately file an emergency appeal with the relevant administrative courts. Describing itself as the «largest institution for Muslim theological education in Europe», the institute warned that its closure would leave a significant gap. It emphasized that thousands of its former students are now serving in educational, social, and religious roles across France.

The institution rejected any accusations of wrongdoing, highlighting its «exemplary courses» and describing its educational approach as an «intellectual and pedagogical bulwark» against the misuse of religious texts. Far from encouraging extremism, the IESH said it promotes a «critical, contextualized, and responsible» reading of Islamic sources, specifically designed to counter radical narratives.

The statement argued that shutting down the institute would be «counterproductive», potentially pushing learners toward unregulated online content or foreign programs beyond any oversight. The IESH also stressed its openness to dialogue with the state, its signing of the Charter of Islam in France, and its efforts to build academic partnerships with universities.

"If adjustments are needed, we are willing to make them", the institute said, while characterizing the dissolution threat as a "negative signal" to citizens committed to coexistence.

Source: Yabiladi.com