Ban on headscarves for girls: Islamic association threatens to sue!

Ban on headscarves for girls: Islamic association threatens to sue!

A socio-political debate is brewing in Austria that affects not only girls under the age of 14, but also the entire Muslim community. The government has submitted a new ban on headscarves for minors, which is due to come into force in January 2026. This plan is already causing heated discussions, with many voices criticizing it as a step in the wrong direction.

The Islamic Federation (IF), the country's second largest mosque association, expresses strong concerns and sees the law as an expression of political motivation that could benefit from anti-Islamic currents. She describes the headscarf as an expression of cultural identity, as the visibility of religion does not have a negative impact on social participation. Claudia Plakolm, the ÖVP's integration and youth minister, described children's headscarves as a "sign of oppression" and explained that girls in Austria "can grow up freely, visibly and self-determined."

Outrage among Muslims

The IF not only criticizes the symbolic politics of politicians, but also warns of a possible increase in racist attacks against Muslims. "Self-determination through bans? That can't be the right way," emphasizes a spokesman for the IF. This highlights a fundamental discrepancy in perception: for many women who choose to wear the hijab, it is an expression of their religious beliefs and not a symbol of oppression. Public discussion is heavily influenced by prejudices.

When considering the issue, it is often overlooked that girls under the age of 14 are not given enough voice to make these decisions. Critics argue that the headscarf should not be worn in school education and public institutions in order to limit the influence of cultural norms. However, this view is seen by many as discriminatory and increases feelings of isolation within the Muslim community.

Social policy in focus

The planned changes are not only controversially discussed in Austria. Similar efforts can be seen in Germany, where regulations restricting the wearing of religious clothing in public service have increased in recent years. Aynur Handan Yazıcı, chairwoman of the women's organization IGMG, expresses sharp criticism of such plans, which could make it more difficult for Muslim women to be represented in important positions. She sees the bans as a “socio-political fiasco” and calls for more participation by religious and ethnic minorities.

The discussion about the visibility of Muslim women in key positions is also particularly noteworthy. Many women who wear the hijab do without it in their professional lives in order to be taken seriously. Radical religious discourses are using the headscarf controversies to promote an “us versus them” mentality and fuel fears that the West is acting against the Muslim community. It is important to question young girls themselves and to promote a more open, religiously sensitive attitude.

In view of the new draft law, the question is not only what legislation means for wearing the headscarf, but also how we as a society want to deal with diversity and religious identity. The Islamic Federation is already planning to closely monitor the legislative process and take possible legal action against the law to send a clear message to its community.