The European Muslims League (EML) expresses its concern over the debate that has emerged in France following Marine Le Pen’s proposal to submit to a referendum a ban on the Islamic headscarf in public spaces.
The EML does not intend to intervene in French political competition or to express judgments on political parties or candidates. However, the issue goes far beyond an electoral debate: it concerns a fundamental principle of European democratic societies — freedom of religion and equal treatment of citizens.
“If a Muslim woman were not allowed to cover her hair because of her religious convictions, should we then ask a Christian nun to remove her veil or an observant Jewish woman to abandon her religious tradition? Religious freedom either belongs to everyone, or it ceases to be freedom,” said Alfredo Maiolese, President of the European Muslims League.
It is also essential to clearly distinguish issues concerning identification and public security from the wearing of the hijab. A headscarf that leaves the face visible does not prevent a person from being identified. Confusing these different matters risks turning a religious symbol or practice into a public-order issue.
The European Muslims League believes that no woman should ever be forced to wear a headscarf against her will. With equal conviction, however, we believe that no woman should be forced by the State to remove it when she freely chooses to wear it in accordance with the law.
Religious freedom cannot be defended only when it concerns the majority. Its true strength is measured by the ability of democratic institutions to protect minorities as well.
Christians, Muslims, Jews and members of every other faith must be able to peacefully live their religion and express their religious identity, in accordance with the law and with respect for the rights of others.
The European Muslims League will continue, through the EML Islamophobia Watch – European Monitoring & Response Unit, to follow developments across Europe and to intervene whenever measures, proposals or public campaigns may result in discrimination against Muslim citizens.
European Muslims League (EML)
www.eml.fm
FRANCE, PROPOSAL TO BAN THE ISLAMIC HEADSCARF. EML: “RELIGIOUS FREEDOM MUST APPLY TO EVERYONE”
