Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
10 July 2024 | 14:20 SAST
1-minute read

Picture: Radio Islam International

Media coverage of the recent election in France failed to focus on the extent to which the migrant vote shapes electoral outcomes.

While emphasis was placed on increased voter turnout and the victory of the left-wing over right-wing political players, there was a noticeable absence of attention on increased consideration for policies of religious freedoms and the rights of migrants within French politics.

This week’s Media Lens on Radio Islam International with Hafidh Ibrahim Deen revealed that increased voter turnout generally translates into more support for the left, “and the left tends to have a more pro-immigrant and pro-religious freedom stance.”

Deen added that for the first time, there is space within the French political sphere for parties that appear to have a genuine concern for the political rights of immigrants and migrants.

Comparably, media coverage of the election in the United Kingdom failed to focus on the success of some independent candidates who were running against Labour’s support for Israel.

“There was also very little focus on how this has actually meant that Labour has shifted. In the past few days, we’ve seen labour appoint an attorney general who is very critical of Israel and has said that they now won’t be part of the case that tries to limit the power of the ICT,” Deen said.

With President Emmanuel Macron expected to hold office until 2027, very little is expected to change in terms of European politics as a direct result of this election, Deen noted. “If change is going to happen, it will be towards the right,” he added.

The impact of the UK election on European politics might result in more willingness to negotiate over Brexit, considering Labour’s opposition to Brexit. Additionally, European immigration policies and those regarding Africa are also likely to change towards the right.

Listen to the full interview on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat here.