# Law restricts conspicuous religious symbols in public schools (2004)

URL: https://history-france.com/timeline/2004-law-restricts-conspicuous-religious-symbols-in-public-schools
Location: France

The secularism law renewed debate over laïcité, religion and integration. Within the broader Fifth Republic period, The 1958 Constitution created a stronger presidency and a durable Fifth Republic. Decolonization, European integration, social change, economic shocks and recurring debates over identity, secularism and the role of the state have shaped contemporary France. At this point in the timeline, the relevant governing authority is Jacques Chirac (President of the French Republic). Law restricts conspicuous religious symbols in public schools mattered because it changed the legal or constitutional framework within which French institutions and citizens operated. The event is positioned here so visitors can read it alongside changes in government, warfare, society, religion, culture and France’s wider international setting.

## Why it matters
Law restricts conspicuous religious symbols in public schools mattered because it changed the legal or constitutional framework within which French institutions and citizens operated.

Ruler at the time: [Jacques Chirac](https://history-france.com/rulers/jacques-chirac)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia topic lookup — Law restricts conspicuous religious symbols in public schools](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Search?search=Law+restricts+conspicuous+religious+symbols+in+public+schools&go=Go)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — Law restricts conspicuous religious symbols in public schools](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=Law+restricts+conspicuous+religious+symbols+in+public+schools)
- [Élysée — Institutions of the Fifth Republic](https://www.elysee.fr/en/french-presidency/the-institutions)