France's Controversial Ban on Abayas in Schools Sparks International Outrage

France will ban the wearing of abayas in public schools starting from the upcoming academic year, citing the principle of laïcité, or the separation of state institutions and religions. The move has been criticized by opposition lawmakers as a form of Islamophobia and an artificial religious war. France has previously implemented controversial bans on items of Islamic dress, such as the hijab and niqab, which have drawn international criticism. Critics argue that these policies go against the liberal principles of the country and further divide the nation.