MEP Silvia Sardone (Patriots for Europe) has asked the European Commission whether it plans to defend gender equality principles in the context of Shia Ashura processions held in several European cities, where women were reportedly separated from men and placed behind barriers. In a written parliamentary question dated 30 June 2026, Sardone cited incidents in Milan and Berlin as incompatible with EU values of equality and women's rights, and requested the Commission's view on what she described as an exponential increase in Islamist-style gatherings involving gender segregation.
The question, addressed to the Commission, contains three concrete asks: whether the Commission has submitted or intends to submit proposals to defend gender equality in Muslim communities; what view it takes of the rise of such segregated gatherings; and whether it has undertaken any projects concerning women's freedom to choose whether to wear the Islamic headscarf, given reports of violence linked to its imposition. The MEP's initiative signals a push for EU-level action on religious practices she argues run counter to Western values, potentially affecting Muslim communities in Europe, women's rights advocates, and national authorities responsible for public order.
Sardone's question does not propose specific numerical targets or deadlines but calls for a policy stance and possible legislative or project-based responses. The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks, and its answer will indicate whether it views the issue as falling within EU competence or as a matter for member states. The question reflects a broader cleavage between religious freedom and gender equality, with potential implications for EU integration in fundamental rights policy.