What is the ruling on the hijab in countries that forbid it, and should scholars address the responsible authorities regarding this matter?

The hijab is a religious obligation, as evidenced by the texts of the Qur’an and Sunnah. A believer is not permitted to object to it, for Allah the Almighty says: "And it is not for a believing man or a believing woman, when Allah and His Messenger have decided a matter, that they should [thereafter] have any choice about their affair." The hijab is a symbol of chastity and purity, and it brings about worldly and otherworldly benefits for society, including protecting it from crime and achieving its stability.