Austria Approves School Headscarf Ban for Girls Under 14 Amid Constitutional Concerns

Austria Approves School Headscarf Ban for Girls Under 14 Amid Constitutional Concerns
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Austrian lawmakers voted on Thursday to prohibit headscarves in schools for girls under 14, despite warnings the legislation may deepen social divisions and face legal challenges. The ban, proposed by the conservative-led government that took office in March, will take effect at the start of the new school year in September.

Families who repeatedly violate the rule could face fines of up to €800. A transitional phase beginning in February will introduce the measure to educators, parents and students. Supporters within the coalition, including Neos parliamentary leader Yannick Shetty, argued the ban is intended to protect girls’ freedoms, saying the headscarf places unnecessary pressure on minors.

The law marks the second attempt by an ÖVP-led government to restrict headscarves in schools; a similar 2019 ban for girls under 10 was later overturned by the constitutional court for discriminatory targeting of Muslims. Officials say they have worked to avoid repeating that outcome, though legal experts remain doubtful.

The Green party was the only parliamentary group to oppose the measure, calling it unconstitutional. Rights organisations, including Amnesty International, criticised the ban as likely to increase discrimination, while Austria’s Islamic Community warned it would marginalise Muslim students.

Analysts also noted the debate has unfolded against the backdrop of rising economic pressures, with some suggesting the issue has been used to deflect attention from fiscal challenges. Critics argue the legislation risks reinforcing exclusion and signalling to young Muslims that their identity is unwelcome.