Women’s Rights Groups Demand End to Hijab Ban and Accountability for School Administrators

‘Lift the Hijab Ban. Hold School Administrators Accountable by Law!’ – Women’s Rights Advocacy Organizations

Seven women’s rights advocacy organizations have called for the religious rights of Muslim female students in Axum city to wear the hijab to be respected.

The organizations have also demanded that school administrators who prevented Muslim female students from wearing the hijab and preparing for the 12th-grade national exam be brought to justice immediately.

It has been reported to Tikvah Ethiopia’s Mekelle family that the legal case related to the hijab issue in Axum city will be transferred to Mekelle.

The following seven women’s rights advocacy organizations sent their joint statement to Tikvah Ethiopia:

1. Gender-Based Justice Initiative

2. Gorzo Movement for Women’s Empowerment

3. Center for Women’s Empowerment, Rise and Shine

4. Sanaye Hiwot Organization

5. Ambrella for the Needy

6. Nolawi for Women and Children

7. Hiywet and Lema’at Organization

In their five-point statement, the organizations outlined the following demands:

1. Lift the hijab ban.

2. Hold school administrators accountable by law.

3. Ensure access to education.

4. Provide makeup classes to compensate for lost academic time.

5. Promote religious tolerance in schools.

Meanwhile, it has been reported to Tikvah Ethiopia’s Mekelle family that the legal case related to the hijab issue in Axum city will be transferred to Mekelle.

Information obtained from the Tigray Islamic Affairs High Council indicates that the case, which began on Monday, February 24, 2025, will continue in Mekelle. However, no reason has been provided for the transfer of the case.