Austria Bans Headscarves for Girls Under 14 in Schools

DID Press: Austria has passed a new law banning the wearing of Islamic headscarves by girls under the age of 14 in schools across the country.

Under the legislation approved by the Austrian parliament, female students younger than 14 will no longer be allowed to wear Islamic head coverings in educational institutions.

According to the law, if warnings are ignored, parents or legal guardians may face fines of up to €800.

Austrian government officials say the measure is aimed at protecting children’s rights and preventing religious pressure on minors.

The decision has sparked widespread criticism from human rights organizations and Muslim communities, with opponents arguing that the ban is discriminatory and violates freedom of religion.

The law is expected to face legal challenges and public protests in the coming months.