This law was enacted by the ruling coalition between the Red-Green parties, along with the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and the Alternative for Germany (AfD) in mid-May.
The law aims to prevent female students from wearing the niqab during classes and school events. Violating this law can result in a fine of up to 500 euros, while wearing a hijab that reveals the face from the eyebrows to below the chin remains permitted.
The law is based on a 2020 ruling by the Hamburg Higher Administrative Court, which determined there was no legal basis to prevent a Muslim student from wearing the niqab. The school administration clarified that the ban includes the niqab and any other face-covering, but does not include the hijab that reveals the face. Wearing medical masks is still allowed for health reasons.
The administration emphasized that the law should not lead to social isolation or discrimination against female students. Therefore, educational support and discussions with parents will be provided.
In cases of continuous non-compliance, educational and organizational measures can be taken, or a fine of up to 500 euros can be imposed.
Measures for students required to attend school might include a written warning or exclusion from school trips or classes for up to ten days. For students not required to attend school, they could be expelled permanently. Fines can also be imposed on parents who violate mandatory attendance laws.
