Discussion: The individuals right to dress as they please

Presentation of the topic

The issue of Islamic dress codes is highly debatable. Some see the niqab (the traditional Muslim headscarf) as a tool of oppression, while others believe it is a tool that empowers and inspires women. The women who wear the niqab are not always forced to do it - they choose it willingly and wearing it becomes part of their identity.

Wearing a hijab is easily accepted and understood throughout the world, however, wearing a niqab is disfavored. What is the reason behind this attitude? Why do people believe that the full veil is an instrument of oppression and abuse towards women? There are plenty of women who have willingly chosen to wear a full veil and they are not at all victims of persecution and abuse.

Can we really allow ourselves to judge somebody based on their clothing choices only because their standards differ from ours?

Points for discussion

In this section of the study guide, we will try to help you answer these questions and many more related to this issue. The following questions are here to help you think about the topic. They can also help you come up with creative ideas when it comes to discussing the right of the individual to dress as he/she p...