Laïcité: the essential

The essential parts of laïcité in 7 key messages.

1. LAÏCITÉ MEANS THE FREEDOM OF CONSCIENCE

No one can impose anything on another person in the name of religion.

It is a personal choice to follow a religion or not to believe in God.

Laïcité means respecting the freedom of others.

2. LAÏCITÉ MEANS PRIORITIZING THE LAWS OF THE REPUBLIC OVER RELIGIOUS LAWS.

Births, marriages, divorces, and burials are managed by the State, not by a religious institution.

Women do not need to ask their husbands for permission: men and women are legally equal.

Laïcité means everyone is treated equally

3. LAÏCITÉ MEANS THE RIGHT TO CRITICIZE RELIGIONS

Laïcité allows you to criticize religious opinions (and any other opinions) but not to attack people personally.

Laïcité means freedom of expression

4. Laïcité means the right to change religion

In France, you can choose a religion, leave it or change it for another without being punished. You can choose to believe in God or not.

Laïcité means freedom of conscience

5. Secular school guarantees a neutral education, without any religious influence.

A child can receive a religious education, but it is not part of the national curriculum.

The teaching contents determined by the State are neutral. In religious schools, a religious content is proposed in addition.

Laïcité means neutral public services

6. Laïcité respects religious diets but encourages everyone to eat together.

Laïcité means solidarity

7. Laïcité separates religion and public services.

In hospital, you cannot choose your doctor. In the city, you can choose your doctor.

Laïcité allows everyone to live together despite religious differences.