Symbol of oppression: Blackholm ignites the debate between religious freedom and gender equality
The Austrian government is attempting to impose a ban on wearing hijabs for underage girls in schools again, after the previous attempt failed. Integration Minister Claudia Plakolm (ÖVP) expressed confidence that the new version of the law will stand up to the Constitutional Court, confirming that it addresses previous legal comments and is part of a broader initiative to promote integration and gender equality.
The Constitutional Court (VfGH) had annulled the first law in 2020 on the grounds that it specifically targeted the Islamic religion, which contradicts the principle of state neutrality in religious matters. To avoid a repeat rejection, the new draft included social and educational support and empowerment measures aimed at enhancing equality and self-determination for girls. The review period for the project ends on Thursday, and public comments will be integrated later.
During a press conference at the Federal Chancellery, Blackholm rejected criticisms that the law focuses only on Islamic symbols, asserting that the hijab restricts girls' freedom and prevents them from growing up equally with boys. She described the hijab as "a form of cultural violence" associated with misconceptions about honor and the role of women, adding: "This is not just a simple piece of cloth, but a symbol of oppression."
The government has allocated 6.5 million euros to support educational and social programs accompanying the law, including empowering girls, raising awareness among parents, and implementing preventive programs for boys and community leaders. More than 30 project proposals have already been submitted, with funding decisions to be made in early November.
During the press conference, Blakolm presented two existing projects: the Women's Center of the Austrian Integration Fund (ÖIF) led by Sonia Kohl, which focuses on equality and independence, and the 'Heroes.Steiermark' project presented by integration expert Emina Saric, which aims to train young males as positive role models to combat gender-based violence. The minister believes that these two projects will be essential cornerstones in the government's new integration strategy.