United Nations rights experts have condemned France’s recent decisions to prohibit women and girls from wearing the Muslim headscarf during sports competitions, labeling these actions as “discriminatory.” They are calling for the reversal of these policies.
France’s Secularism Rules Impact Olympic Athletes
France has invoked its strict secularism laws to ban athletes from wearing religious symbols, including the hijab, at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Additionally, the country’s football and basketball federations have chosen to exclude players who wear the headscarf from competitions, affecting even amateur levels.
Violations of Rights and Identity
In a statement released on Monday, eight independent UN experts emphasized that these decisions are “disproportionate and discriminatory,” infringing on the rights of French athletes to freely express their identity and practice their religion in both public and private settings. They argued that Muslim women and girls who choose to wear the hijab should have equal opportunities to engage in cultural and sporting activities within French society.
UN Experts Demand Equal Rights
The statement was endorsed by various UN special rapporteurs focusing on cultural rights, minority issues, and freedom of religion. These experts, appointed by the UN Human Rights Council, do not represent the organization itself but advocate for the rights of marginalized groups.
France’s Secularism Laws Explained
France’s secularism laws aim to maintain state neutrality regarding religious matters while ensuring citizens’ rights to practice their faith freely. These regulations restrict students, teachers, and civil servants from displaying “ostentatious” religious symbols.
Experts Argue Against Restrictions
The UN experts argued that the state’s neutrality and secularism cannot justify restrictions on freedoms of expression and religion. They asserted that any limitations must be proportional, necessary for achieving objectives outlined in international law (such as safety and public order), and substantiated by facts rather than assumptions or biases.
Call for Protection and Equality
Amid growing intolerance and stigmatization of women and girls who wear the hijab, the experts urged France to take all necessary measures to protect these individuals, uphold their rights, and promote equality and respect for cultural diversity.
Participation of Hijab-Wearing Athletes
Notably, the French team at the upcoming Paris Olympics will not include any athletes who wear the hijab. However, the International Olympic Committee has permitted participants to wear the headscarf in the athletes’ village.
