Switzerland: Male Muslim Students Don't Need To Shake Hands With Female Teachers

Male Muslim students are now exempted to shake hands with their female teachers in Northern Switzerland. The shaking of hands of students with their teachers is part of the culture of Switzerland as a sign of respect and good manners. But on the other hand, it is against the religious culture of Islam to do so.

The Controversial Decision

English Alarabiya reported that Education authorities in Northern Switzerland, in the municipality of Therwil, made the decision after two male Muslim students carped that the shaking of hands with a female teacher is against their religious beliefs. They said that they do not allow physical contact with the opposite sex except for immediate family members.

The decision was made in favor of the Muslim students. However, it didn't fare too well with everyone, as the decision sparked an outcry across Switzerland.

"It is difficult when someone refuses to adopt our way of life," said Christine Akeret, in charge of the Therwil school system. Meanwhile, the head of the Swiss Conference of Canton and Ministers of Education, Christoph Eymann said that "such exceptions to the rules are not the solution."

The Arguments

Truth Revolt reported that the community and some people across Switzerland are not pleased with the school's decision. They thought that the male and female teachers must be treated equally in schools.

One commentator said that it depicts discrimination. "We cannot tolerate that women in the public service are treated differently from men," said Eymann.

The Swiss Justice Minister Simonetta Sommaruga said that the shaking of hands between teachers and students belongs to their culture. The teachers' union also argued, saying, "the same rules should apply to all students." They also said that shaking hands is not only part of their culture, but also preparing the students on how to properly address the women and men they are going to meet in the future.