Many Muslims worldwide either support or adopt religious veiling, and those who argue against it are often criticized, or worse.

But, according to Yasmin Alibhai-Brown, the veil throws up a number of concerns, from questions of health and freedom of choice, to issues of gender and personal identity.

She argues that veiling conceals abuse, propagates eating disorders, and restricts access to sunlight and exercise. It is imposed on babies and young girls, allows women to be shamed for not covering up, and has become associated with extremist factions. It demonizes men, oppresses...