Burkini - the 'not-so-simple' swimsuit.

(Baonghean) - Recently, the name burkini has become popular in the media as it has been banned on many French beaches. Perhaps never before has a single garment influenced so many aspects of life…

What is a burkini?

The burkini is a type of swimwear for Muslim women that covers the arms, legs, and hair. For Muslims, wearing clothing that covers these three areas is a sign of humility and a demonstration of their faith.

A woman wearing a burkini on the beach in Marseille, France. Photo: Guardian.

The burkini is commonly worn while swimming and on the beach; its name is a combination of the word "burqa" - a type of Islamic clothing - and the word "bikini," meaning swimsuit.

Although the burkini is a swimsuit designed specifically for Muslim women, it has been banned in many French coastal cities such as Cannes and Villeneuve-Loubet for reasons of incompatibility with secular values ​​and laws (a movement that restricts the influence of religion in certain areas, creating a state that is neutral in terms of religious belief) or due to fears of terrorism. Violators may be forced to remove part of their clothing or fined around 38 euros.

In fact, several women wearing burkinis have been fined by police on the grounds that the attire was disrespectful to morality and secularism. These bans come amid ongoing tensions in France, following a series of attacks by Islamist extremists, most recently the truck attack in Nice that killed 85 people, carried out by a member of the self-proclaimed Islamic State (IS).

Furthermore, Muslim attire is also a frequently debated issue in France, the first European country to ban face masks in public in 2010 and headscarves in public schools in 2016.

Contrasting opinions

Although supposedly intended to ensure security and minimize the risk of terrorism, the ban on the burkini has faced mixed reactions. Aheda Zanetti, an Australian swimwear designer, argues that women cannot be punished for wearing a burkini, an outfit that represents freedom, health, and fun.

Furthermore, the burkini is not exclusively for Muslims; it can be worn by anyone, regardless of religion, who choose this attire to protect their skin. Michael Leiter, former director of the US National Counterterrorism Center, argues that a ban on the burkini could cause division within the country and increase the risk of terrorism.

Protesters demonstrate against the burkini ban in front of the French embassy in London. Photo: Twitter.

Meanwhile, London Mayor Sadiq Khan, also a Muslim, condemned the ban: “No one can dictate what women can or cannot wear; these laws must end immediately.”

Recently, a protest against the Burkini ban also took place last week at the French embassy in London. Around 40 people gathered, dressed in Burkinis, and held a beach party right in front of the embassy. Through this action, the protesters wanted to send a message of solidarity and support for Muslim women – who are considered vulnerable in society.

Legal question

Amidst widespread criticism following the ban, the French Supreme Administrative Court ruled last week that the bans were illegal. The bans were deemed “a serious and clearly unlawful violation of fundamental freedoms.” Despite this, more than 20 mayors of cities subject to the ban have stated they will continue to implement the regulations, with only the mayors of Oye-Plages and Eze agreeing to lift them, leaving the government in a difficult position.

Despite being accused of "playing with fire," Cannes Mayor David Lisnard declared he would stand his ground, stating that the Burkina Faso was a sign of "Islamization in society." This development has created a major problem for the French government regarding the rule of law, as opposition from mayors has emerged.

In theory, the government could take action to force mayors to withdraw the ban, while human rights groups say they will act by appealing to the courts. However, those who support the ban are still defending their position, reacting to the court ruling.

Prime Minister Manuel Valls said that France needs a modern society and that wearing a burkini might be contrary to that idea. French Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve stated that although his country does not need this new law, Muslims still need to continue the process of gender equality.

Profitable business

Swimsuit designers say that thanks to these bans, people are paying more attention to their products. According to Kausar Sacranie, who sells burkinis through her brand Modestly Active, her sales have increased by 50% since the product gained media attention.

In fact, the burkini market has been booming in recent years. UK-based retailer Marks & Spencer reported that last year's unsold burkini stock was completely sold out this past summer.

Initially, it was a fashion initiative for Muslim women to enjoy the beach without violating their customs. However, this fashion product has sparked controversy stemming from political, religious, and conflict-related issues.

This may indicate that the conflict and differences in viewpoints between nations and religions remain prominent issues that are not easily changed on a global scale.

Phan Vu