German Minister’s Call for School Hijab Ban Sparks Debate

German Minister’s Call for School Hijab Ban Sparks Debate
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A German state minister has ignited controversy after suggesting a ban on the hijab for girls under 14 in schools. Manfred Pentz, Minister for European Affairs in Hesse and a member of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU), told Bild newspaper it was “regrettable” to see young girls wearing the headscarf, which he argued might be the result of social or family pressure.

He said schools should be the place to foster openness and diversity. His comments have drawn sharp criticism from activists and rights groups, who argue such proposals contradict the very principles of pluralism and freedom of belief.

The debate comes after Austria introduced a similar ban in schools and kindergartens, a measure widely criticized as discriminatory and restrictive of religious freedom. Observers warn that framing the hijab as a symbol of oppression risks reinforcing negative stereotypes of Muslims and could alienate minority communities rather than promote integration.