The word 'hijab' means staying hidden.

From a Western perspective, the wearing of a headscarf appears to take women back in time. But some Muslim women are making a positive choice to wear a headscarf, as well as the niqab, or veil.

Safaa Faisal explores an emerging form of 'feminism' that has adjusted to the religious and cultural influences of the Middle East.

She interviews women who have chosen radical Islam: strong women with strong political views.

As fathers, husbands and brothers are detained, those who are left behind become isolated. Safaa reveals the women who are trying to find an identity amid the chaos.

Listen to the programme
	Listen to the programme

First broadcast in June 2006. Produced by Safaa Faisal of the BBC's Arabic Service.