A confidential diplomatic memorandum obtained by investigative outlet Mediapart reveals the United Arab Emirates has orchestrated a sophisticated influence campaign targeting French political institutions. The 13-page document, dispatched in August by the UAE foreign ministry’s European directorate to embassy official Ahmed al-Mulla, outlines a “multi-sectoral mobilisation strategy” designed to pressure French authorities into intensifying measures against the Muslim Brotherhood and affiliated organizations.
The memo characterizes France as a “target country” with an increasingly favorable environment for monitoring Islamist networks. It explicitly states its objective: “to encourage French authorities to strengthen measures – whether restrictions, designations, or tightened regulatory oversights of MB-linked entities” through channels that align with France’s domestic frameworks.
The strategy advocates simultaneous engagement across multiple levels of the French system, including the Presidency, Prime Minister’s Office, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, security services, parliamentary bodies, civil society, and media outlets. It emphasizes discreet cultivation of relationships with key advisers in President Emmanuel Macron’s inner circle to influence presidential decision-making.
Operational tactics include providing pre-written documents designed for “reusable” circulation within French authorities, building networks of sympathetic parliamentarians who can advance legislative measures, and collaborating with think tanks to shape public narrative. The memo particularly notes receptiveness among center-right and far-right political factions to the UAE’s arguments about Islamist dangers.
This revelation reinforces existing concerns about Emirati interference in French politics, following previous investigations into disinformation campaigns targeting Qatar. The document acknowledges potential backlash, warning that “any involvement perceived as intrusive could provoke a backlash and harm the UAE’s contribution,” highlighting the operation’s sensitivity.