Robert Ménard, mayor of Béziers in southern France, has once again ruffled feathers by setting up a nativity scene outside the town hall. This marks the 11th straight year Ménard has flaunted the religious display, blatantly defying France’s strict secular laws.
Breaking the Law, Ignoring Court Orders
The nativity scene breaches the 1905 law that bans religious symbols on public buildings. Article 28 specifically forbids any religious emblems in public places—except in churches, cemeteries, or museums. Ménard has been convicted eight times but shrugs off the rulings, insisting the display symbolizes the town’s roots and shared heritage.
Protests Erupt as Locals Cry Foul
Angry protesters gathered outside demanding respect for secularism. Signs read: “To trample on secularism is to give in to the Islamists” and “The nativity scene is great! But not here.” Ménard branded critics as “grumpy people” using the issue for political gain ahead of elections. He also announced a Hanukkah celebration, stirring fresh controversy.
Sophie Mazas, human rights lawyer, hit back: “On church steps, at your house, the nativity scene poses no problem. But under the 1905 law separating church and state, it has no place in a town hall courtyard.”
Nationwide Tradition, Fierce Debate
Ménard isn’t alone. Louis Aliot, ex-Vice President of Marine Le Pen’s National Rally and mayor of Beaucaire, displays a nativity scene yearly—and even faced a hefty €120,000 (£105,000) fine for refusal to remove it.
Aliot defends the tradition: “The nativity scene brings everyone together. We don’t proselytise, we simply remind everyone of a message of love.” A 2014 La Parisien poll backs him, with 86% of French voters in favour of nativity scenes in public spots.
Secularism Under Scrutiny amid Rising Tensions
Experts say the crackdown on religious neutrality disproportionately targets Islam but sweeps up other faiths too. Sociologist Jean Baubérot notes: “Cribs are religious symbols that shouldn’t be in public spaces,” yet also warns of the growing anti-Islamic climate affecting freedoms.
As the 120th anniversary of the 1905 law looms, France remains locked in bitter debate over religion in public places.
