A recent study by the French Institute of Public Opinion (IFOP) for the International League Against Racism and Anti-Semitism (LICRA) gives a broad picture of racism in France, with research among more than 14,000 people aged 15 and over.
The study shows that racism is common. Overall, 46 per cent of people in France say they have experienced discrimination or racist behaviour, most often verbal abuse.
The study also looks at groups that are usually less discussed. Among white French people, 39 per cent say they have already experienced discrimination.
The study emphasises “We are not indulging in victimhood fantasies.” The study represents millions of people, showing that anti-white racism is a real phenomenon and should not be treated as non-existent.
At the same time, Jewish people are among the most affected : Some 69 per cent of them report discrimination linked to their religion.
As a result, 31 per cent of Jewish victims say they had to change schools because of racism. In addition, 81 per cent say they avoid certain behaviours, such as showing their identity, going to certain places, or revealing their background. Avoiding public spaces concerns 58 per cent of Jewish victims, but also 43 per cent of white victims.
It also has serious psychological effects. Twenty-four per cent of victims report anxiety or depressive episodes and this number rises to 47 per cent among Jewish people. More than half of victims, 55 per cent, say they have considered leaving France. Some 1,320 anti-Semitic incidents were recorded in France in 2025.
Finally, the study says racism does not affect everyone in the same way. Jewish people often face everyday, repeated discrimination in ordinary situations, while black and Arab people are more exposed to institutional racism.
Overall, the study shows that racism in France is widespread and affects different groups in different ways. It highlights both the high level of discrimination against Jewish people and the significant experience of anti-white racism.
It aims to provide the “antidote” to the “exploitation” of the concept of “anti-white racism”, which is “suspicious the moment it is uttered”.
