Formally Neutral Dress Codes and Substantive Equality for Religious and Cultural Minorities: An Equality Law Perspective

In modern times, countries generally no longer issue explicit dress codes targeting specific groups, but instead widely adopt seemingly neutral dress codes in public institutions. Such policies claim to apply uniformly to all citizens, yet they often bring about real conflicts for religious and cultural minorities who require special clothing for their own identities. This article takes seemingly neutral dress codes as the research object, explores the tensions between formal equality and substantive equality, and compares the dress‑related predicaments faced by minority groups in the contexts of China and Western countries. The research employs methods such as comparative study, case analysis and literature review to distill the differentiated adverse consequences brought about by facially neutral dress codes. The research conclusion holds that formal fairness at the textual level does not equal true equality. When evaluating dress codes, one should not merely look at the literal meaning but also take into account the actual situation of minority groups. Only by balancing the demands of public order with the cultural and religious dress codes can society achieve inclusive substantive equality.