Austria began enforcing a controversial new law on Monday as the school year opened in Vienna and several other provinces. The legislation prohibits female students under the age of 14 from wearing hijab in schools, a move that has sparked intense debate and is expected to reach the country's constitutional court.
The law applies to both public and private schools and specifically targets head coverings that cover the hair "according to Islamic tradition." The ban does not extend to educational activities or events held outside school premises.
Schools are required to hold a conversation with the student and her parents following a first violation. Repeated infractions can trigger an administrative process that may result in fines ranging from 150 to 800 euros.
Austrian government officials have framed the policy as a measure designed to protect young girls and promote equality, independence, and visibility among female students. The Islamic community in Austria, however, has condemned the law as discriminatory and a violation of fundamental rights, announcing plans to challenge it in the constitutional court.
Austria is not alone among European nations in restricting hijab in educational settings. France has banned students in public schools from displaying prominent religious symbols since 2004, a prohibition that includes the hijab. Kosovo has similarly barred female students from wearing head coverings in schools since 2010.
