Vienna, Austria — Austria has passed a controversial law banning headscarves for girls under the age of 14 in both public and private schools, a move the government claims is aimed at promoting gender equality but which critics warn will fuel anti-Muslim sentiment and may violate the country’s constitution.
The measure, supported by the governing coalition of the ÖVP, SPÖ, and Neos, prohibits “traditional Muslim” head coverings such as the hijab or burka for students under 14. The law takes effect after a trial period beginning February 2026, with full implementation scheduled for the start of the next academic year in September.
A New Version of a Previously Rejected Ban
Austria introduced a similar ban in 2020 targeting girls under the age of 10, but the Constitutional Court struck it down, ruling that it was discriminatory because it specifically targeted Muslim students.
The government insists this updated law is broader and designed to withstand legal scrutiny, though officials admit uncertainty.
“We have done our best. Will it pass in the Constitutional Court? I don’t know,” said Neos parliamentary leader Yannick Shetty, who argued that the ban is meant to “protect the freedom of girls” and is not directed at any religion.
Shetty said roughly 12,000 girls are expected to be affected.
Penalties for Violations
Under the law, any girl found wearing a headscarf in school must undergo a series of discussions with school authorities and legal guardians.
If violations continue:
- Child and youth welfare services will be informed
- Families may face fines of up to €800 (£700) as a last resort
Critics Warn of Discrimination and Constitutional Breaches
Opponents say the government is repeating the mistakes of 2020, and that this version will also collapse under legal scrutiny.
The official Islamic Community in Austria (IGGÖ) condemned the law, saying it violates religious freedom and stigmatizes Muslim girls.
“Instead of empowering children, they will be marginalised,” IGGÖ said in a statement.
“The Constitutional Court already ruled unequivocally that such a ban is unconstitutional.”
The IGGÖ said it will pursue “all necessary legal steps” to challenge the law.
Opposition MP Sigrid Maurer of the Greens called the measure “clearly unconstitutional.”
Far-Right Party Says Ban Does Not Go Far Enough
The far-right Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) voted in favour of the ban but said it is only the beginning.
FPÖ spokesperson Ricarda Berger declared:
“Political Islam has no place in our schools. We need a general ban for all pupils and staff.”
Government Defends Law as Gender Protection
Supporters argue the policy protects young girls from being forced to wear religious coverings.
“This is about empowerment,” government members said, calling the hijab ban a step toward ensuring girls can grow up “free from oppression.”
A Divisive Move in a Politically Sensitive Climate
Austria, like several European countries, continues to debate how to balance secularism, integration, and religious rights.
The headscarf ban has now reopened longstanding tensions over immigration, identity, and Islam in Austrian society.
The next major test will be whether the Constitutional Court agrees this time — or strikes the law down again.
