Society

Austria approves headscarf ban for girls under 14 amid constitutional concerns

Thursday 11 December 2025 - 14:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Austria approves headscarf ban for girls under 14 amid constitutional concerns

Austria has enacted a new law prohibiting girls under the age of 14 from wearing headscarves in schools. The measure, backed by the conservative-led coalition of the ÖVP, SPÖ, and Neos parties, has reignited debate over religious freedom and national identity. Lawmakers say the ban aims to promote gender equality and protect young girls from coercion, while critics warn it risks deepening discrimination against Muslim communities.

The ban applies to all public and private schools and forbids “traditional Muslim” head coverings such as hijabs or burkas. Violations will first lead to meetings between families and school officials. Persistent non-compliance could result in involvement from child welfare agencies and fines of up to €800.

Government representatives describe the measure as an effort to empower young women. Liberal Neos party leader Yannick Shetty argued it is not directed against any specific faith but instead seeks to safeguard freedom of choice. He estimated that the rule would apply to around 12,000 students nationwide.

Opposition to the decision remains strong. The far-right Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ), though supporting the law, called it insufficient and demanded a universal headscarf ban extending to all pupils and staff. Meanwhile, the Greens labeled the legislation unconstitutional, citing concerns over discrimination and violation of equality principles.

The Islamic Community in Austria (IGGÖ) strongly condemned the law, asserting that it infringes on fundamental rights and alienates Muslim girls. The organization vowed to examine the law’s legality and, if necessary, challenge it before the Constitutional Court. It recalled that a similar 2020 ban for younger girls was struck down for targeting a religious minority.

Authorities expect an awareness campaign to start in February 2026, with full enforcement scheduled for the beginning of the next academic year in September. Legal observers anticipate another judicial review that could once again determine whether Austria’s approach to secularism and gender policy withstands constitutional scrutiny.