Secularism Today: Challenges and Prospects 120 Years After the 1905 Law

The law establishing the separation of church and state (December 9, 1905) is 120 years old. While it provided a clear answer to the question it sought to resolve—namely, the relationship between the state and religious actors within society—confusion still prevails in public debate and public opinion, as it is constantly reignited by new issues and the self-serving mobilizations of certain actors in this debate.

Under these circumstances, the original principle of secularism established in 1905 is invoked in some quarters, called into question in others, and elsewhere given new meanings by a confused public. One hundred and twenty years after the original law, how can we analyze the new challenges, observe and understand the changes, so that everyone—especially public servants and university staff—can define their position in their profession and in their role as citizens?

A lecture and discussion session open exclusively to UM staff and students, presented as part of the 120th anniversary of the law separating church and state by Jean-Paul Udave, Secularism Advisor at the University of Montpellier, and organized by the Office of Campus Life.