The policing of Muslim women’s bodies, from West Asia to Europe and beyond

The article discusses the ongoing discrimination against Muslim women regarding their dress codes in various regions, including West Asia and Europe. It highlights the contradiction of secularism when it imposes restrictions on women's choices, particularly concerning the hijab. The recent protests in Azerbaijan against new school clothing restrictions underscore the broader issue of how societal norms dictate women's rights and freedoms.

The piece argues that the focus should not be on whether women should wear the hijab, but rather on the societal pressures that dictate their choices. This reflects a growing concern about the intersection of secularism and authoritarianism, where personal freedoms are compromised in the name of societal standards. The situation in Azerbaijan serves as a case study of these tensions, illustrating the need for greater respect for individual rights.

Ultimately, the article calls for a reevaluation of how society views women's autonomy in their dress, emphasizing that freedom of choice should be paramount. The protests in Azerbaijan are a critical reminder of the ongoing struggle for women's rights in the face of institutional discrimination.