Austria approves headscarf ban for Muslim girls under 14 in schools
Austria’s parliament on Thursday passed a legal amendment banning Muslim girls under 14 from wearing headscarves in schools, prompting immediate criticism and promises of a constitutional challenge from the Islamic Religious Community in Austria (IGGÖ).
The measure, backed by the ruling ÖVP, the Social Democrats, NEOS, and the far-right FPÖ, will take effect at the start of the 2026/2027 school year. It prohibits “headscarves worn in accordance with Islamic traditions,” including coverings such as headscarves or burqas. Schools will enter an information phase in February to prepare for implementation.
Under the law, schools must first meet with the child and her parents if a violation occurs. Continued noncompliance would require involvement from school authorities, and parents may ultimately face fines of up to €800.
The Greens voted against the amendment, arguing it risks being unconstitutional. A similar 2019 ban targeting primary schools was previously struck down by the Constitutional Court for singling out Muslim girls.
The government says the law aims to prevent gender-based oppression, noting no comparable concerns exist with other religious garments such as the Jewish kippah or Sikh patka.
The IGGÖ condemned the ban for “stigmatizing children” and harming social cohesion, vowing to challenge the legislation before the Constitutional Court.
