Secularism, faith and mutual respect: A personal view on the hijab debate
Recent days have seen serious public discussion over a decision concerning the hijab. On social media we see differing positions, unease and sometimes harsh rhetoric toward one another.
Fira Jalilova3 min read
Recent days have seen serious public discussion over a decision concerning the hijab. On social media we see differing positions, unease and sometimes harsh rhetoric toward one another.
In my view, in such sensitive matters one must first look at the substance of the decision and the framework within which it is applied.
Azerbaijan is a secular state. Secularism is not being against religion. It is the principle that the state treats all citizens equally regardless of their religious belief, and that decisions are adopted on legal grounds.
I also do not consider it right to link this matter to other countries, other peoples or foreign influences. The discussion concerns a decision adopted in Azerbaijan, and its being debated by society is entirely natural.
What draws my attention more is the aspect of the matter connected to the school environment and children.
Childhood and adolescence are the period when a person's worldview is formed. It is natural for a child to be influenced by family, teachers and the surrounding environment. From this standpoint, it is important that the school be as neutral as possible and the same environment for all children.
I understand the state's approach from this perspective as well. The aim is to prevent a child from being forced into any worldview and to enable the child to make his or her own choices more consciously in the future.
At the same time, I think that one of the most important principles in discussing this matter is mutual respect. Both the choice of a person who wears the hijab and the choice of a person who does not should be respected. No one should be considered superior or inferior because of their faith.
A uniform dress requirement for teachers can also be approached from the standpoint of ensuring certain rules and a professional appearance in the school environment. Allowing the use of elements of national dress, including the kelaghayi, in turn shows that secularism and national values are not in conflict with each other.
I view this matter not as an attitude against religion, but as a matter of establishing rules in the school environment. But when applying any decision, it is also important to protect respect for people and to prevent discrimination.
Thinking differently is normal. We may disagree on this matter. The main thing is that our disagreement should not turn into disrespect toward one another.
Because one of the most important values that unites us as a society is the ability to live alongside people who think differently.