Austria Approves Headscarf Ban for Girls Under 14 in Schools

December 13, 2025

Controversial law prohibits Islamic head coverings in schools for young girls, sparking immediate plans for a constitutional challenge by Muslim organizations.

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Key Takeaways

Islamic community announces immediate constitutional appeal
Headscarf ban applies to girls under 14 in all Austrian schools
Fines of €150-€800 to be enforced starting 2026/27 academic year

VIENNA — Austria’s National Council has approved a new law banning headscarves for girls under 14 in schools.

The law prohibits head coverings worn “according to Islamic traditions” in both public and private educational institutions, with fines up to €800 beginning in the 2026/27 academic year.

Integration Minister Claudia Plakolm defended the measure as protecting children from what she termed “a symbol of oppression.” The government estimates approximately 12,000 girls could be affected by the prohibition.

Enforcement responsibility falls to school administrations rather than individual teachers.

The Freedom Party (FPO) linked the issue to mass immigration and “political Islam,” while the Greens stood as the sole opposing party. Green deputy parliamentary leader Sigrid Maurer predicted the law would be overturned, noting similarities to a 2020 ban struck down by the Constitutional Court for violating equality principles.

Austria’s Islamic Religious Community announced plans for an immediate constitutional appeal. Muslim legal representatives argue the legislation repeats provisions previously invalidated by courts and risks marginalizing young Muslim girls who choose to wear headscarves voluntarily.

Legal experts suggest the government’s revised justification may not withstand judicial scrutiny.