Berlin’s Green Party Advocates for Hijab in Police Force, Challenging Neutrality Law

Germany’s Green Party has called for the repeal of Berlin’s 2005 Neutrality Act, arguing it discriminates against Muslim women by banning religious symbols, including the hijab, for civil servants, Shafaq news reported.

The law, which mandates ideological and religious neutrality in public service, has faced criticism for disproportionately affecting Muslim women seeking careers in policing, education, and other state roles.

Tuba Bozkurt, the Green Party’s anti-discrimination spokesperson in Berlin’s parliament, stated, “Muslim women wearing hijabs are part of our society. Their presence should be visible in our institutions.” She emphasized that inclusivity would strengthen public trust, particularly in diverse communities.

Critics of the repeal defend the law as essential to maintaining secularism in government functions, insisting it applies uniformly—though exceptions exist, such as crucifixes in some contexts. The debate reflects broader tensions over religious expression in Europe, where the hijab is often politicized.

For many Muslim women, the hijab represents modesty, cultural identity, and empowerment. Opponents of bans argue they ignore the garment’s personal significance and reinforce exclusion. The Greens’ proposal reignites a longstanding debate about balancing secularism with individual rights in Germany’s multicultural society.