Geneva – UN-appointed human rights experts have condemned recent moves by French sports federations and the government to ban athletes from wearing the hijab, calling the actions “discriminatory” and urging their reversal. The ban, enforced by French football and basketball federations, prevents players from wearing the hijab in competitions, affecting both amateur athletes and those representing France, including those who were barred from wearing the hijab at the Paris Olympic Games last summer.
The UN experts argue that these measures violate fundamental rights, including the right to religious expression, personal identity, and cultural participation. They contend that France’s policies directly contradict its stated commitment to inclusivity and fail to meet international human rights standards.
“State neutrality and secularism are not legitimate reasons to restrict freedoms of expression and religion,” the experts asserted, adding that any restriction must be “proportionate” and serve clearly defined international objectives. They criticized policies based on “presumptions or prejudices,” which risk stigmatizing Muslim women and girls.
The recent decision by France’s highest administrative court, the Conseil d’État, to uphold the football federation’s hijab ban has intensified concerns, as has a proposed Senate bill that would further restrict hijab use in public spaces. The experts warn that such measures fuel harmful stereotypes and perpetuate discrimination against Muslim women, making them more vulnerable to social exclusion.
“In a climate of intolerance and widespread stigmatization against women who choose to wear the hijab, France must take decisive action to protect their rights, promote equality, and support cultural diversity,” the experts urged.
This issue, part of a broader report presented to the UN General Assembly, has been formally raised with the French government by the UN Special Rapporteur on cultural rights.
