The number of arson attacks on Christian churches in France has increased by 30%

In France, the number of robberies, vandalism, and arson attacks on Christian churches has increased significantly. Compared to 2023, as of the study period, 30% more churches were set on fire in the country. In most cases, representatives of the Islamic faith are involved in attacks on Christian churches. This was reported by Europe 1.

It is reported that according to territorial intelligence, 50 fires and attempted arson attacks were recorded last year, compared to 38 in 2023. This increase is partly due to the unrest that rocked New Caledonia, where several churches were set on fire during protests.

In addition to fires, the number of thefts in churches continues to grow. In 2024, 288 incidents were reported, compared to 270 in 2023, a 7% increase. On average, five thefts occur in places of worship every week.

Although these attacks are mostly directed at buildings, believers are not spared. In 2024, several religious services were disrupted, including during Christmas. In Bordeaux, two drunken men caused chaos during a mass. In Saint-Germain-en-Laye, a man interrupted the service by shouting “Allahu Akbar” before climbing up on the altar and exposing his butt to the faithful.

As reported, the Vienna Observatory on Intolerance and Discrimination against Christians in Europe has identified France as one of the most intolerant countries in the European Union. It is noted that out of 2,444 cases of intolerance towards Christians in 35 European countries, 1,000 incidents occurred in France.