The wearing of the hijab has become the focus of renewed debate in two European countries this year. In France, a new political controversy has emerged over proposals to restrict the Islamic headscarf in public spaces. In Austria, a new law restricting headscarves for girls under 14 in schools has come into force.

In late August, Marine Le Pen revived the National Rally’s proposal to penalize the wearing of the Islamic headscarf in public spaces. The proposal would go beyond France’s existing restrictions and could affect Muslim women wearing the hijab in streets and other public areas.

The proposal has faced criticism from political opponents and legal experts, who have questioned its compatibility with religious freedom and France’s constitutional framework. Even within the National Rally, there have been reservations about extending restrictions to the public sphere.

In Austria From the beginning of the 2026/27 school year, girls under the age of 14 are prohibited from wearing a headscarf that covers the head according to Islamic traditions in school. The government argues that the measure is intended to protect girls’ development, autonomy and equality.

Critics, including Austria’s main Muslim representative organization, argue that it disproportionately targets Muslim girls and interferes with fundamental rights. The Austrian Constitutional Court is expected to face renewed challenges over the legislation, particularly given its earlier decision to strike down a narrower headscarf ban in 2020.