The Stream

Europe unveiled

What’s behind the fixation on women who wear Muslim headscarves?

Fatima Doubakil of the ‘Hijab Outcry’ campaign speaks to members of the media outside the Swedish Government building in Stockholm, Sweden, 20 August 2013, after a meeting with Swedish Minister of Justice, Beatrice Ask, following an alleged attack on a woman wearing a hijab on 16 August. (EPA/ANDERS WIKLUND)

A recent brutal attack on a pregnant Muslim woman wearing a headscarf has caused outrage in Sweden. The incident has once again shed light on the hot button issue of the hijab in Europe. While some claim governments have the right to uphold secularism by outlawing religious symbols and apparel in public spaces, critics believe these restrictions are mainly targeting Muslims and a result of growing anti-immigrant sentiment. So, do governments have the right to implement laws that promote secularism? 

In this episode of The Stream, we talk to: 

Gina Dirawi @anaginas
TV/Radio Host and Comedienne

Sayida Ounissi @SaidaOunissi
Member of the Forum of European Muslim Youth and Student Organisations 
 
Bob Churchill @bobchurchill
Spokesman – Secular Europe Campaign
 
Seyran Ates @seyranates
Lawyer and Activist

What do you think? Record a 30-second video response or leave your thoughts in the comments below.