Austrian Parliament Approves Headscarf Ban for Young Students

Austria’s lower house of parliament has passed a controversial ban on Muslim headscarves for girls under 14 in schools. The legislation, passed by a large majority on December 11, 2025, prohibits headscarves that “cover the head in accordance with Islamic traditions” in all educational institutions.

Under the law, non-compliance can result in fines ranging from 150 to 800 euros ($175–$930). The ban will affect approximately 12,000 girls and is set to come into effect in February 2026, following a transition period during which schools, parents, and students will be informed about the new rules.

---

Background of Headscarf Legislation in Austria

Austria first introduced a headscarf ban in 2019 for girls under 10 in primary schools. However, the Constitutional Court struck it down in 2020, ruling that it discriminated against Muslims and violated the state’s duty of religious neutrality.

The current law, proposed by the centrist coalition government and supported by the far-right Freedom Party, seeks to address legal vulnerabilities while maintaining a political stance amid rising anti-immigration and Islamophobic sentiment in Austria. The Green Party was the sole parliamentary party to oppose the measure.

---

Government Arguments for the Ban

Integration Minister Claudia Plakolm of the conservative People’s Party described headscarves for minors as “a symbol of oppression.”

Yannick Shetty, leader of the liberal Neos, argued that headscarves “sexualise” girls, claiming they function to shield them from male attention. Education Minister Christoph Wiederkehr highlighted pressures on girls from both families and peers regarding religious attire.

---

Criticism from Rights Groups and Community Leaders

Rights organizations have strongly condemned the ban. Amnesty International warned it would “add to the current racist climate towards Muslims.”

The officially recognized Muslim body IGGOe stated the ban jeopardizes social cohesion, arguing that it stigmatizes and marginalizes children rather than empowering them.

Angelika Atzinger, managing director of the Amazone women’s rights association, said the law sends a concerning message about control over young girls’ bodies. The Greens’ deputy parliamentary leader Sigrid Maurer suggested forming interdisciplinary teams, including Muslim community representatives, to help schools address cultural tensions instead of imposing bans.

---

Implementation and Enforcement

The new law will include an initial period where no fines are issued, allowing parents, students, and educators to adjust to the new rules. After this phase, repeated non-compliance will result in penalties.

The government estimates that around 12,000 girls will be affected by the legislation, sparking concerns about discrimination, social inclusion, and freedom of religious expression in Austrian schools.

---

Broader Implications

Critics argue that the ban reflects a hegemonic Islamophobic discourse across Europe and contributes to rising tensions against Muslim communities. Observers note that Austria’s approach could set a precedent for other European nations grappling with questions of religious expression, education policy, and minority rights.