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The Burqa and French Values

Western media have condemned France’s 2010 law banning face coverings and local decrees adopted this year banning the full-body “burkini” swimsuit. French-bashing in the press is nothing new, but those criticizing these measures ignore the historical and sociopolitical reasons underlying broad popular support for them.

PARIS – Many Western media outlets were highly critical of France’s 2010 law banning face coverings, such as burqas that cover a woman’s face and entire body, and local decrees adopted this year banning full-body “burkini” swimsuits on public beaches have drawn further negative attention. French-bashing in the press is nothing new, but those who criticize these measures ignore the historical and sociopolitical reasons for why most French people support them.

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