H. A. Hellyer
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Why Populists in Some Pockets of Europe Feel Threatened by a Hijab
There is a deepening of anti-Muslim bigotry in some pockets within Europe's mainstream institutions. This is of concern to anyone who considers pluralism to be a worthy value, not just in Europe. It is not clear that those who do are increasing in number.
Source: National
“I cannot accept that someone comes to participate in our work at the National Assembly wearing a hijab,” said Anne-Christine Lang, a member of France’s parliament earlier this month. Ms Lang then led a walkout to protest the presence of a Muslim lady in a headscarf (hijab) in the institution. This is not an isolated incident.
Rather, it is the latest deepening of anti-Muslim bigotry in some pockets within Europe's mainstream institutions. This is of concern to anyone who considers pluralism to be a worthy value, not just in Europe. It is not clear that those who do are increasing in number.
About the Author
Former Nonresident Scholar, Middle East Program
Dr. H.A. Hellyer was a nonresident scholar at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. He serves as a senior associate fellow at the Royal United Services Institute for Defence and Security Studies in London, and as a Cambridge University fellow.
- The Sinwar DelusionCommentary
- Why Gaza Forces Europe to ActCommentary
H. A. Hellyer
Recent Work
Carnegie does not take institutional positions on public policy issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of Carnegie, its staff, or its trustees.
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