Islamic veil bans: the gender equality justification and empirical evidence

Book chapter

Howard, E. 2014. Islamic veil bans: the gender equality justification and empirical evidence. in: Brems, E. (ed.) The experiences of face veil wearers in Europe and the law Cambridge, UK Cambridge University Press. pp. 206-217
Chapter titleIslamic veil bans: the gender equality justification and empirical evidence
AuthorsHoward, E.
Abstract

This chapter examines the argument that bans on the wearing of Islamic head scarves and veils are necessary for the promotion of gender equality. It argues that this is based on a stereotypical view of the women who wear these garments as being oppressed and pressured into wearing them by men. This ignores the empirical evidence which shows that there are many different reasons why women wear headscarves and veils. And, even if some women and girls are pressured into wearing headscarves or veils, bans could well be counterproductive and work against their emancipation, potentially increasing their isolation from society.

Research GroupLaw and Politics
Page range206-217
Book titleThe experiences of face veil wearers in Europe and the law
EditorsBrems, E.
PublisherCambridge University Press
Place of publicationCambridge, UK
SeriesCambridge Studies in Law and Society
ISBN
Hardcover9781107058309
Publication dates
PrintSep 2014
Publication process dates
Deposited14 Oct 2014
Output statusPublished
Web address (URL)https://www.cambridge.org/gb/academic/subjects/law/human-rights/experiences-face-veil-wearers-europe-and-law?format=HB
LanguageEnglish
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