In France the distinction between the secular and
religious domains is the result of a slow evolutionary process
of secularization over a period of two centuries. A key
element was the law of separation between churches and State
in 1905. Secularization also produced a pluralistic
socio-cultural system, which permits an increase in religious
supply, issued from outside or inside existent churches. The
religious landscape became complex due to the growth of
certain groups. Nowadays, efforts to regulate Muslim
communities are leading towards a new tendency of state
control of religious activities in two fields, namely places
of worship and school activities. Religious plurality is
recognized by the State in the name of the freedom of beliefs.
Private organizations are used for the public practice of
religion and easily obtain places of worship. However, this
has necessitated a large number of regional or local
arrangements. In the name of the freedom of thought, the
school system of the Republic is ensured by public schools, or
by Catholic or Jewish schools, subject to strict public
control. In this matter, there is only minimal tolerance of
other denominations.