i think person above has missed the point. Most mid eastern and developing nations do not profess to be democratic open societies, that does not mean that they are wrong, simply different idealogies.
However, France boasts about what a 'free' democratic society it is and free speech etc..... if that is the case then banning muslim clothing goes against these principles, do they ban people with their tongues pierced...NO because as long as they are not interfering with anyone else (or breaking the law) it should be fine.
France is known for its right wing stance.......