Austria Bans Head Scarves in Schools for Girls Under 14

Austria has passed a law banning head scarves for girls under 14 in schools, set to take effect next school year. The law, supported by the centrist government after pressure from the right, prohibits head coverings during lessons and recesses, with fines for parents who repeatedly violate the ban. The government argues the law protects children's rights and prevents oppression, while critics, including the Islamic Faith Community of Austria, contend it infringes on religious freedom and plan to challenge it in court. A similar ban was previously overturned, but lawmakers believe the new law's focus on child protection may make it stand up to judicial review. The law is the result of ongoing debate about Austrian identity and the role of Islam in public life.

In December 2025, Austrian lawmakers passed a law banning headscarves for girls under 14 in all schools. This new legislation follows a previous ban for under-10s that was overturned by the Constitutional Court for being discriminatory. The law, proposed by the governing coalition and supported by the far-right Freedom Party, aims to prevent headscarves that "cover the head in accordance with Islamic traditions." Non-compliance will result in fines ranging from 150 to 800 euros. The government believes this law will withstand legal challenges, while rights group Amnesty International says the ban will negatively impact around 12,000 girls and contribute to a racist climate towards Muslims.