Austria votes to ban headscarves in schools for girls under 14

Austrian lawmakers have approved a ban on headscarves in schools for girls under the age of 14, a measure proposed by the conservative-led government. The law, expected to take effect in September, aims to protect girls from sexualization and the "male gaze," according to supporters. Families face fines for non-compliance. This is the second attempt by the People's party to ban headscarves, following a previous ban for girls under 10 that was overturned by the constitutional court for being discriminatory. The Green party opposed the new legislation, raising similar constitutional concerns. Rights organizations and the Islamic Community in Austria have criticized the ban, arguing it will stigmatize and marginalize Muslim girls.

Austria has enacted a law banning headscarves in schools for girls under the age of 14, a measure the government defends as promoting gender equality and protecting girls from oppression. The law, applying to both public and private schools, prohibits "traditional Muslim" head coverings. Violations will result in discussions with school authorities and guardians, potentially leading to notification of child welfare agencies and fines. While the government asserts the law protects girls' freedom, critics, including the official Islamic Community in Austria, argue it is unconstitutional, stigmatizes Muslim girls, and violates fundamental rights. The far-right Freedom Party supports the ban but believes it should be extended to all students and staff, while the Greens party also views the law as unconstitutional.