By Urdu Report Editorial Team
Austria has enforced a new law banning female students under the age of 14 from wearing headscarves in schools following the end of the summer holidays.
The ban was introduced as schools reopened across the country. The three parties in Austria’s governing coalition supported the measure, saying it aims to protect the freedom and autonomy of young girls.
The law was approved by parliament last December and also received support from the far-right Freedom Party.
Fines for Continued Violations
Under the new rules, school authorities must first speak with a student if she violates the headscarf ban.
If the violation continues, a fine ranging from €150 to €800 may be imposed.
Muslim Group Announces Legal Challenge
The Islamic Religious Community in Austria, which represents Muslims in the country, has described the law as a violation of fundamental rights.
The organization has announced that it will challenge the legislation in court.
Austria’s Constitutional Court has previously ruled against a law concerning headscarves worn by young girls. In 2020, the court overturned a ban on headscarves for girls under 10, ruling that the measure was discriminatory toward Muslims.
Following the enforcement of the new law, debate over religious freedom, children’s rights and religious symbols in Austrian schools is expected to intensify.
