Austria's Headscarf Ban for Schoolgirls Begins, Faces Court Challenge

Austria's ban on headscarves for girls under 14 took effect September 1, 2026, across all schools. It passed with broad cross-party support. Teachers must counsel noncompliant families; repeat violations can bring child-services referrals and fines up to €800. Austria's Islamic community plans a Constitutional Court challenge, citing a 2020 ruling that struck down a narrower ban.