French Hijab Ban in Sports Faces Intensifying Debate as Law Awaits Assembly Review
Prime Minister François Bayrou consolidates government support for the controversial measure, while athletes and public figures voice polarized opinions.
- The proposed law banning religious symbols, including the hijab, in sports competitions has been approved by the French Senate and is pending examination by the National Assembly.
- Prime Minister François Bayrou has directed ministers to align with the government's support for the law, despite earlier divisions within the cabinet.
- Prominent athletes like Teddy Riner have criticized the ban as discriminatory, while others, including Mahyar Monshipour, argue it upholds secular values and women's freedoms.
- Supporters claim the law aligns with the Olympic Charter's principles of neutrality by prohibiting religious and political demonstrations in sports.
- Critics, including Amnesty International, warn the law disproportionately targets Muslim women and violates their rights to religious expression and cultural participation.
L'Humanité 
La Croix 
