France bans hijabs

France has announced a ban on its athletes wearing hijabs during the upcoming 2024 Olympic Games, a decision that has drawn significant criticism from human rights groups, including Amnesty International. They argue that this ban represents blatant discrimination and violates the rights of Muslim women and girls, who are already facing barriers in sports due to similar restrictions in amateur leagues. Helene Ba, a French Muslim athlete, has initiated 'Basketball for All,' an inclusive movement aimed at challenging this ban and providing a supportive environment for Muslim female athletes. The International Olympic Committee defends France's position, asserting that athletes are considered civil servants and must adhere to the country's secularism laws. Critics warn that the ban could discourage young Muslim girls from pursuing sports and may lead some athletes to consider competing for other nations. The controversy highlights a growing tension between national secular policies and the promotion of diversity and inclusion in sports.