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The Working Group on Discrimination against Women and Girls and three UN Human Rights Council special rapporteurs urged France on Tuesday to «reverse discriminatory measures prohibiting women and girls who choose to wear the hijab from participating in sports and ensure compliance with its international human rights obligations».
In a statement, the experts noted that Muslim female athletes wearing the veil «must have equal rights to participate in cultural and sporting life» and «to take part in all aspects of French society».
They emphasized that France's justification for the ban, citing secularism and neutrality, is insufficient and discriminatory. The experts argued that the ban is disproportionate and violates international human rights law.
A key example is the ban on athletes wearing the hijab from representing France at the 2024 Paris Olympics. This decision, based on a Council of State ruling, contradicts the International Olympic Committee's stance, which does not prohibit headwear during competitions.
The experts highlighted the French Football Federation's ban on religious symbols in sports competitions, which disproportionately affects Muslim women athletes. They criticized the French government's stance, which stands in contrast to the inclusive approach of other countries participating in the Olympics.
The UN experts called on France to address the issue of intolerance and stigmatization towards women who wear the hijab, protect their rights, and promote equality and respect for cultural diversity.
