In a controversial move that has ignited a heated debate on religious freedom, France’s ban on abayas, the long, loose-fitting robes worn by some Muslim women and girls, has sparked outrage and criticism from various quarters. The ban, which was implemented at the start of the new school year, has led to confrontations between the government and individuals who argue that it infringes upon their right to practice their religion.
On Monday, approximately 300 girls arrived at French public schools wearing abayas, openly defying the ban. French Education Minister Gabriel Attal reported that most of these students eventually agreed to change their attire to comply with the new regulations. However, 67 girls refused to do so and were sent home, where their families now face a period of dialogue with the authorities. If this dialogue proves unsuccessful, the students may be excluded from school.
The government’s decision to ban abayas in schools is rooted in its commitment to secularism in education. France has long maintained a strict ban on religious signs in state-run schools and government buildings, arguing that they violate secular laws. Headscarves have been banned since 2004, and the ban has been extended to include various religious symbols over the years. However, abayas have not faced a ban until now.
Critics argue that abayas should not be considered a conspicuous display of religious affiliation and therefore should not be prohibited within educational environments. They contend that the ban infringes upon civil liberties and perpetuates discrimination against Muslim women and girls.
Opposition lawmakers have expressed their reservations about the restriction, with some characterizing it as a “new Islamophobic campaign.” The ban has also sparked condemnation from Muslim communities, leading to a legal challenge by an association representing Muslims, which has filed a motion with the State Council, France’s highest court, seeking an injunction against the ban.
President Emmanuel Macron defended the ban, citing concerns about a minority in France that “hijacks a religion and challenges the republic and secularism.” He referred to the tragic murder of teacher Samuel Paty in 2020, which was linked to displaying caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad in a civics education class.
Abdallah Zekri, vice-president of the French Council for Muslim Worship, has argued that the abaya “has never been a religious symbol” and should not be banned. He believes that the ban is a political move targeting the Muslim population in France, asserting that the abaya is a form of fashion rather than a religious dress.
The ban on abayas in French schools has brought religious freedom and secularism into the spotlight, raising questions about the boundaries of state intervention in individuals’ religious practices. As France grapples with these contentious issues, the debate over the ban on abayas is far from over.
