Austria Approves Headscarf Ban for Schoolgirls Under 14

Austria’s parliament has passed a controversial new law banning schoolgirls under the age of 14 from wearing Islamic headscarves, including hijab and similar coverings, in both public and private schools. The ruling coalition introduced the measure as part of its gender-equality agenda, triggering widespread national debate.

Under the new legislation, the ban will apply across the entire school system. Government leaders argue that the decision aims to protect young girls from “social pressure” and “religious coercion,” though critics strongly reject this justification.

Austrian lawmakers vote by large majority in favour of law banning headscarves in schools for girls under 14, a move rights groups and experts say is discriminatory and could deepen societal division pic.twitter.com/jjKIwwXc8o

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Legal experts and religious groups have labelled the law unconstitutional, saying it disproportionately targets Muslim students and infringes on fundamental rights. They point out that a similar ban for girls under 10 was struck down by the Constitutional Court in 2020.

The law requires students who violate the ban—and their parents or guardians—to attend mandatory counselling sessions. Repeated violations may be reported to child welfare authorities, and fines of up to 800 euros can be imposed on parents.

Austria’s Muslim community organization IGGÖ has condemned the legislation as divisive and discriminatory, announcing plans to challenge the law in court. The group argues that the measure undermines religious freedom and fuels anti-Muslim sentiment.

Political reactions remain polarized. The far-right FPÖ insists the ban does not go far enough and should extend to all students and school staff, while the Green Party has criticized the legislation as clearly unconstitutional.

Although the government claims to have minimized legal concerns, it acknowledges that the law may still face challenges in court. A trial phase is set to begin in February 2026, with full enforcement expected at the start of the school year in September 2026.