Study Finds Veiled Women Face Severe Job Discrimination in France

The Ondes researchers simulated applications for BTS Accounting and Management and found significant discrimination. Candidates wearing the veil saw their chances of getting an interview decrease by more than 80%. This penalty applies regardless of their origin, whether French or Maghrebi. The mere fact of wearing the veil is an obstacle.

The study is not limited to the reduction in the number of positive responses. Veiled candidates also have less chance of receiving non-negative responses, such as requests for additional information. This suggests an initial sorting of applications, often without thorough examination.

The results of the study unequivocally point to religious discrimination. Prejudices related to ethnic origin are not enough to justify the extent of the discrimination. The veil, as a visible religious symbol, is specifically targeted.

This discrimination directly impacts the professional careers of the women concerned. They have to multiply their applications to hope to get a job, a real obstacle course.

The authors of the study evoke an institutionalized Islamophobia, hindering the integration of veiled women into the world of work. This finding is all the more worrying as it adds to other potential forms of discrimination.