The Libyan Ministry of Interior, under the Government of National Unity, has indicated its intention to impose the hijab on residents in Libya. It has called on the Prime Minister to issue a decree mandating the hijab in schools, as stated by Interior Minister Imad Al-Trabelsi.
Imad Al-Trabelsi said: “We have morals and modesty, and the majority of our women dress modestly. However, there is a certain corrupt group that we ask to reform with us. We urge the Prime Minister and Minister of Education to enforce the hijab, not the khimar; every woman is free to choose whether to wear the khimar or not. Women must go out wearing the hijab, and this is what we will enforce.”
These statements came in a society where hijab is prevalent in markets, streets, and workplaces, with only a few not wearing it. Among the women who work while wearing the hijab is Rawia Aboukhashim, who expressed that the hijab cannot be imposed because it is a personal choice, worn out of conviction or respect for customs and traditions.
Rawia Aboukhashim stated: “I support the imposition of the hijab, not through fiery rhetoric or force, but through religious lessons and seminars supervised by the Ministry of Awqaf or the Fatwa House, making young girls love the hijab rather than hate it due to imposition.
Some have objected to the Interior Minister’s statements, arguing that the matter should be governed by laws, not by government will.
Abdul Rahman Adel, a member of the Peace and Prosperity Party, commented: “I believe this is not within the government’s rights. We are a society, and it is natural for societies to have differences. No society is monolithic, and I don’t think that expelling or displacing dissenters is a solution. These matters are governed by legislation and laws that must be respected.
Khalifa Al-Madani, a lawyer, asserted: In my opinion, there is no law imposing the hijab in Libya. While public order and morality are enforced, the hijab is not mandated. What Mr. Imad Al-Trabelsi is doing is against the law, as he does not have the authority to enforce this. If he wishes to ban the hijab, he should go to the Parliament and seek to enact a law.
The Interior Minister’s statements, which sparked controversy, have drawn calls from Amnesty International for the Prime Minister to rescind them, stating that they violate international law. However, they received support from some citizens.
Ahmed Fawzi, a university student, remarked: The decision to wear the hijab is very good, as it is mandated by Islamic law that women wear the hijab. Activating the morals police is a very wise decision, and the Libyan people support it.edited 01:02