Greek Migration Minister Thanos Plevris: ‘We are examining a headscarf ban in schools’

Greece is examining the possibility of banning the Islamic headscarf in schools, Migration and Asylum Minister Thanos Plevris said, sparking concern and debate, particularly among the Muslim Turkish minority in Western Thrace.

Speaking on the FaceToFace program broadcast on the YouTube channel of Ta Nea, Plevris was asked whether Greece could adopt measures similar to those implemented in countries such as France and Denmark, where restrictions on headscarves and full-face veils have been introduced in schools and certain public spaces.

Responding to the question, Plevris confirmed that similar policies are under review in Greece.

“We are examining the banning of the headscarf in schools,” he stated.

“The Issue Is on the Agenda”

Plevris noted that several European countries have adopted strict regulations, particularly regarding the burqa, which covers the entire face. He described the burqa as “an open symbol that insults women’s dignity and human dignity,” while distinguishing it from the headscarf.

“I do not place the headscarf in the same category,” he said, adding that the issue becomes different “if there is coercion, especially in the case of minors.”

The minister revealed that he and Deputy Minister Sevi Voloudaki had reviewed the existing legal framework, including relevant rulings by the European Court of Human Rights, which in certain cases has allowed member states to impose restrictions, particularly when minors are involved or in environments requiring direct interpersonal interaction.

Plevris framed the debate within what he described as Europe’s foundational values, referring to ancient Greek and Roman civilization, Christianity, and the Enlightenment.

“We should not be afraid to say it,” he said. “Europe is built on specific values. Any form of pressure on individuals, especially on women, is unacceptable.”

He added that he is “not negative, but rather positively inclined” toward such a direction, while stressing that the necessity and scope of any potential measure are still under evaluation.

“The issue is on the agenda and at a fairly advanced stage,” he said.

Broader Migration Debate

The remarks came during a wide-ranging interview on migration and security policy. Plevris defended Greece’s approach, arguing that the country is implementing one of the strictest migration policies in Europe and remains determined in combating irregular migration.

However, his comments on the headscarf are expected to generate broader public debate, particularly concerning religious freedom, minority rights, and democratic principles.

Reactions and Concerns in Western Thrace

The statement has drawn close attention in Western Thrace, where the Muslim Turkish minority has long advocated for the protection of its religious and cultural identity, particularly within the education system.

Families and educators in the region are closely monitoring developments, amid questions over whether any potential regulation would be introduced through public consultation and how it would align with constitutional guarantees, European human rights standards, and minority protections.

As discussions continue, the proposal is likely to become a focal point in Greece’s ongoing debate over secularism, integration, and fundamental rights.