World Hijab Day 2026 Observed Globally With “Unity in Hijab” Theme
World Hijab Day 2026 Observed Globally With “Unity in Hijab” Theme
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World Hijab Day was marked internationally on February 1, under the theme #UnityInHijab, with events and statements highlighting solidarity with Muslim women and efforts to challenge discrimination and Islamophobia.
More details in the following report:
Organised annually since 2013, World Hijab Day invites people of all backgrounds to engage with the experiences of Muslim women who wear the hijab, emphasising its significance as a symbol of identity, dignity and personal choice. The 2026 observance focused on how visibility can expose Muslim women to heightened scrutiny and harassment, and called for collective action to confront prejudice in public life, workplaces and educational settings.
The #UnityInHijab campaign encouraged women of diverse backgrounds to stand with Muslim women against discrimination. Organisers said that Islamophobia intersects with other forms of inequality and that meaningful solidarity requires listening to Muslim women, amplifying their voices, and advocating for stronger protections and formal recognition of Islamophobia in public policy.
Around the world, activities marked the day. In Nigeria, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu praised Muslim women for their faith and called for peaceful coexistence and respect for diversity as foundations for national unity.
Media coverage also noted that World Hijab Day is observed in more than 140 countries, with virtual conferences, workshops and public awareness campaigns aimed at promoting mutual understanding and inclusivity, particularly around the meaning and rights associated with wearing the hijab.
Celebrations coincided with ongoing cultural attention to the hijab’s representation in the arts and public discourse, including its presence in television and film, showcasing evolving societal perspectives on Muslim women’s roles and identities.
World Hijab Day 2026 served as both a platform for solidarity and a reminder of continued efforts needed to combat discrimination and promote respect for religious expression globally.
