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Following are excerpts from an interview with Syrian political analyst Ahmad Sawwan, which aired on Al-Arabiya TV on July 19, 2010:
Interviewer: Why was it decided by Syria to prevent women wearing the niqab from enrolling in universities?
Ahmad Sawwan: Each country has its own reasons and purposes when it comes to this. In Syria, the ban does not pertain to enrolling in universities – only students entering the university wearing the niqab.
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In political sociology, we consider a person's [face] to reflect his identity. Therefore, in my view, hiding one's face this way poses many question marks. No one conceals his identity unless he is a thief, or is trying to cover up a crime. Even in terms of the so-called "religious" aspect of this issue – in my view, this has nothing whatsoever to do with religion. Freedom of worship is guaranteed and honored, and everybody has the right to practice it freely and openly.
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Interviewer: Has the niqab or the burqa become a widespread phenomenon in Syria?
Ahmad Sawwan: It might become widespread, unless the necessary measures are taken. Syria does not prevent women from wearing the niqab in the streets, but when it comes to universities, this is a matter of education and enlightenment. In my view, such darkness in universities, where students acquire knowledge, is perilous for the social structure of a country like Syria. Therefore, I think that this measure, although belated, is a step in the right direction.
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