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.