France is facing troubling questions about public safety, national identity and social cohesion. A deadly shooting near Paris, scenes of violence surrounding demonstrations, and concerns about the country’s political future have intensified the debate: Is France heading toward a deeper social divide?

On October 23, a gunman killed one person and wounded five others, including a 12-year-old girl, in shootings in Trappes and neighboring La Verrière, southwest of Paris. President Emmanuel Macron visited Trappes and described the violence as a “racist terrorist attack.” French anti-terrorism prosecutors took over the investigation.

The attack has heightened fears about the safety of people targeted because of their background or perceived religion. However, the investigation must establish the suspect’s motives and any organizational connections. Reports identifying him as 39 also differ from the age initially circulated, while his alleged membership in a neo-Nazi group has not been established.

Alongside these security concerns, a recent opinion poll has raised questions about belonging and confidence in France’s future. According to reporting on an Ifop survey conducted for Marianne, 46% of Muslim respondents said they would consider leaving France if Marine Le Pen won the presidential election.

That figure requires careful interpretation. Considering departure is different from making a firm decision to leave. It should not be presented as evidence that nearly half of France’s Muslims will emigrate. Nevertheless, the responses raise an important question about how some citizens view their place in the country as the 2027 presidential election approaches.

Meanwhile, recent demonstrations have been accompanied by serious unrest, including destruction and confrontations with police. These events have added to the tension surrounding further protests over the cost of living.

Having witnessed and covered numerous protest movements in France, I find the scenes of violence, looting and attacks on public property deeply disturbing. Peaceful protest is an essential democratic right. Violence against people and the destruction of businesses undermine that right and leave residents, workers and shopkeepers facing the consequences.

In my assessment, the danger extends beyond any single demonstration or election campaign. When political disagreement becomes hostility toward entire communities, the damage reaches everyday life—in neighborhoods, schools, workplaces and public spaces.

Could France be moving toward a more confrontational political culture, resembling aspects of the polarization seen in the United States? That is a question for debate, rather than an inevitable outcome. France’s history and institutions are distinct, but its ability to preserve dialogue and mutual trust is being tested.

Political leaders across the spectrum face a responsibility to reject racist violence, protect peaceful expression and avoid language that turns citizens against one another.

The central question is now clear: Can France address insecurity and political anger while preserving the sense of belonging that holds a society together?