Islamic sports group criticises hijab ban on French Olympic athletes

On Oct 3, 2023

2016 Rio Olympics - Taekwondo -Women's -57kg Victory Ceremony - Carioca Arena 3 - Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - 18/08/2016. Hedaya Malak Wahba (EGY) of Egypt celebrates on the podium with her bronze medals. REUTERS/Peter Cziborra (BRAZIL - Tags: SPORT OLYMPICS SPORT TAEKWONDO) FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY. NOT FOR SALE FOR MARKETING OR ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS. Picture Supplied by Action Images

RELIGONS NEWS AGENCY (REDNA) – The Islamic Solidarity Sports Federation, which represents 59 groups from Muslim-majority countries, says the decision by France to order its Olympic athletes not to wear the hijab will send a message of exclusion.

In a statement it says: “We believe this contradicts the principles of equality, inclusivity and respect for cultural diversity that the Olympics stand for.

The hijab is an aspect of many Muslim women’s identity and should be respected.

This ban not only infringes upon the religious freedom of French Muslim athletes but could also deny them the opportunity to participate in the Olympics, representing their country and inspiring others.”

France ordered the ban to protect the secular state, but the ISSF follows the UN in objecting to the decision.