Complex equality: Muslim women and the 'headscarf'

Abstract

The article reconsiders the methods used to understand Muslim women's belief and conduct. Its analytical central challenge is to make space for the viewpoint of those Muslim women who are increasingly adopting the headscarf. The article suggests that a shift towards 'complex' rather than 'single axis' equality is more likely to accommodate the perspective of subjects - i.e. Muslim women themselves. 'Complex equality' is more conducive to accommodate the viewpoint of Muslim women because it requires a realignment of gender against other criteria such as race, religion, culture and socio-economic disadvantage. It facilitates the inclusion of Muslim women as equal citizens in the European public sphere.