French Sports Minister Challenges Senate's Proposal to Ban Hijabs in Sports

Marie Barsacq warns against equating religious symbols with radicalization, emphasizing inclusivity in sports.

Marie Barsacq, France's Sports Minister, criticized a Senate-approved proposal to ban hijabs in sports competitions, differentiating it from issues of radicalization.
She emphasized that the ministry's goal is to ensure access to sports for all, framing sports as a tool for personal emancipation.
Barsacq argued that wearing a hijab is not inherently linked to 'entrisme' (infiltration), though she acknowledged isolated cases of inappropriate behavior in sports contexts.
The proposal, supported by another government minister, has reignited long-standing debates over laïcité (secularism) and religious symbols in French sports.
The minister faced criticism from lawmakers and public figures, with some accusing her of downplaying concerns about community-driven radicalism in sports.