Dutch schools nan Muslim students from praying: Reports

Media reports have revealed that dozens of Dutch schools have prohibited Muslim students from performing their prayers during school hours, sparking widespread controversy in human rights and educational circles.

More than 180 secondary schools in the Netherlands have imposed strict restrictions on prayer, forcing some students to pray secretly or leave school premises to avoid punishment. Local media quoted students expressing frustration, with one saying, “They stop us when we pray,” while another added, “I pray in secret, but if I get caught, I will be punished!”

Although Dutch law does not grant schools the right to ban prayer, some administrations refuse to provide prayer spaces, arguing that nearby places of worship are sufficient. One school director reportedly said, “Every student is free to close their eyes and think about God,” a statement that triggered strong reactions.

In response, the Dutch Human Rights College criticized these policies as “illegal,” emphasizing that public schools have no right to prevent students from practicing their religious rituals during breaks. The National Student Committee also expressed concern over the growing restrictions, describing them as “clear discrimination against religious freedoms.”