Journalist Challenges Hijab Ban in French Press Credentials

A Paris-based Moroccan journalist, Manal Fkihi, is appealing a rule that prohibits women from wearing headscarves in photos for the French press ID card, Reuters reported yesterday.

Fkihi’s application for a press pass was denied, hindering her ability to work, the source mentioned.

The press card commission (CCIJP) follows the same standards as passport photos, which forbid head coverings in France, unlike in Britain where they are allowed for religious reasons.

Fkihi’s lawyer argues this rule is discriminatory, as a press card is a professional credential, not an identity document.

Fkihi’s appeal is seen as a step to combat the marginalization of hijab-wearing women in French journalism.

France enforces strict secularism laws, which some rights groups claim have disproportionately targeted the country’s large Muslim minority.