Secularism’s Failings: The Paris 2024 Olympics and the Clash Between Faith and Modernity

The organising committee of Paris 2024 has issued a public apology to Catholics and other Christian groups following an outcry over a scene in the opening ceremony that referenced Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper.” This performance, which featured drag queens, a transgender model, and a singer styled as the Greek god of wine, Dionysus, was intended to convey a message about the absurdity of violence among human beings. However, many viewed it as an offensive parody of a sacred biblical scene, leading to widespread condemnation from Catholics, Christian organisations, and conservative politicians worldwide.

The controversy surrounding the opening ceremony is not an isolated incident but part of a broader historical context of religious and cultural tensions in France. Paris, the city at the heart of the Charlie Hebdo controversy, which saw the satirical magazine publish cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), is once again at the centre of a religious dispute. The Charlie Hebdo incident highlighted that free expression often disregards religious beliefs, sparking debates about secularism and its validity in a diverse society.

Many argue that had the Paris 2024 opening ceremony included a depiction that similarly offended Islam, the repercussions would have been far more severe. This perspective, however, is not rooted in a belief that Muslims are inherently more radical or zealous. Rather, it underscores the steadfast refusal of many Muslims to allow their faith to be secularised by state powers. Despite numerous attempts by European and British authorities to coerce Muslim communities into adopting more secular values, these efforts have largely failed, showcasing a resilience to maintain religious integrity.

The attack on Christianity in Europe is not a recent phenomenon. This trajectory began during the Renaissance (14th–17th centuries), a period that saw the rise of humanism and an emphasis on critical thinking over faith. The Reformation in the 16th century further eroded the Church’s authority as figures like Martin Luther challenged its dominance. The Scientific Revolution (16th–18th centuries) brought about significant discoveries by Copernicus, Galileo, and Newton that questioned Church teachings. During the Enlightenment (17th–18th centuries), philosophers like Voltaire and Hume championed reason and secularism. The French Revolution (1789–1799) drastically reduced the Church’s power through de-Christianisation policies. These historical periods collectively weakened the Church’s influence and promoted a secular worldview that continues to shape contemporary Europe.

Today, the global landscape is influenced by secularism, which is a tool for the elite to exploit the world and its population for their own political and economic ends. This secular order, under the guise of freedom and progress, permits the mockery of religious beliefs and disregards the deep reverence these beliefs hold for millions of people. It has not only fostered moral bankruptcy but also contributed to global poverty and inequality by prioritising the interests of the powerful over the well-being of the masses.

For Christians who wish to see their religion respected and protected from mockery, it is becoming increasingly clear that the problem lies not in interfaith dialogue, but in the secular framework that allows such disrespect to flourish. Both Christians and Muslims must shift their focus towards addressing the broader issue of secularism and the problems it has created in the world. They must advocate for a return to a system reminiscent of the historical caliphate, where Christians and Muslims enjoyed not only the freedom to worship but also the ability to live alongside other faiths without fear of ridicule or scapegoating. One notable example is the city of Thessaloniki, which thrived as a diverse and cosmopolitan centre under the Ottoman caliphate. Christians and Jews coexisted with Muslims, contributing to the city’s rich cultural and economic life. This period of peace and prosperity highlights the potential for different faiths to live together harmoniously under Islam.

Secularism has failed the world both morally and economically. Despite the undermining of Christianity by free thinkers throughout the Renaissance, a new front in this ideological battle has emerged. Today, there are Muslims who are prepared to challenge the validity of secularism for humanity, questioning its ability to provide a just and equitable society. Moreover, Muslims are offering detailed solutions from Islam for some of the most pressing global issues. For mass migration, they advocate for a world that transcends national borders, ensuring that all have a place of refuge. To combat global poverty, Islamic principles of wealth distribution aim to reduce economic disparity. In terms of taxation, an Islamic economic system proposes a fair and just approach that eliminates exploitative practices. Addressing climate change, Islamic teachings encourage stewardship of the Earth, promoting sustainable practices and the protection of natural resources. To bring an end to colonial rule and eradicate a polarised worldview, Islamic principles emphasise justice, peace, and coexistence, offering a framework for resolving conflicts and fostering harmony among diverse communities.