France's schools are set to ban the wearing of the traditional Muslim garment, the abaya, Euronews reports.
The country's education minister announced this decision last Sunday. Gabriel Attal expressed that it shouldn't be possible to determine students' religious beliefs just by looking at them as they enter the classroom.
The abaya is a loose robe or dress with sleeves, fully covering the body, worn by some Muslim women and girls.
This resolution comes after months of debate and is expected to stir disapproval among many members of the country's five-million-strong Muslim community.
Left-wing representatives argue that this measure encroaches upon civil liberties, while those on the right welcome the authorities' decision.
In line with the principle of secularism, France prohibits any symbols of religious affiliation in educational institutions. This law was enacted back in 2004. It encompasses items like kippahs, turbans, large crosses, and hijabs.
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