By Robert Johnson 23 January 2025
The Miviludes (Mission interministérielle de vigilance et de lutte contre les dérives sectaires) is the country’s main institution for the fight against sectarian risks. Established in 2002, its mission is to watch and combat what it considers to be groups that pose a risk to public order or individual freedoms. Nonetheless, over the years Miviludes has come under increasing scrutiny for the lack of transparency, the sensationalist rhetoric and the questionable methodologies. Also, its relationship with the media is rather close which has created a feedback loop that amplifies the public fears and stigmatizes religious minorities.
As a journalist I have always been interested in the role of state power and human rights and I have been following this dynamic closely. Through a series of analyses I intend to unravel how Miviludes’ rhetoric and the media’s uncritical reporting have shaped public discourse in France and led to the marginalization of alternative spiritual practices. This article is the beginning of an investigation into this complex and troubling relationship.
Miviludes: A Watchdog or a Political Tool?
Miviludes has put itself forward as the ultimate authority on sectarian risks in France. But a report by Swiss academics offers a very damning critique of the institution’s methods. Miviludes, the report says, relies on imprecise data, lacks scientific rigor and operates with limited transparency. This being the case, how can it be considered a credible watchdog?
Read full article HERE.
