Overview

• France has enforced bans on hijabs in sports, including during the Paris 2024 Olympics, citing secularism rules.
• UN experts argue these bans are disproportionate and infringe on the rights of Muslim women and girls to express their identity and religion.
• The bans have been applied by French football and basketball federations, affecting athletes at both professional and amateur levels.
• The UN statement emphasizes that secularism should not justify restrictions on freedom of expression and religious belief.
• Experts call on France to protect the rights of hijab-wearing women and promote cultural diversity and mutual respect.