Valery Fadeyev, Head of the Russian Presidential Council for the Development of Civil Society and Human Rights (HRC), has stated that the wearing of the niqab is not a human rights issue, but rather a matter of societal perception and acceptance.
Speaking at a press conference in Makhachkala on July 5th, Fadeyev addressed the topic in the context of discussions surrounding radicalism. "This is a question related to the niqab," - he said. - "It's not a human rights issue, but rather a question of how society views and treats it."
Fadeyev emphasized the need for open dialogue on the issue, particularly with religious leaders and authorities. "In May, I expressed my view that discussions are needed regarding the wearing of niqabs," - he explained. - "I personally believe it's unnecessary, but the issue requires open and honest conversations with religious leaders and authorities."
He acknowledged that his stance on the niqab has faced strong opposition. "Some argued that it's against Muslims and Russia's cultural diversity," - Fadeyev recalled. - "However, it's important to note that, with the exception of Central Asia, neither Tatars, Bashkirs, nor the peoples of the North Caucasus have traditionally worn the niqab within the territory of the Russian Federation or the Russian Empire."
GSV "Russia - Islamic World"
Photo: أخٌفيالله/Unsplash
Based on materials from TASS