A Religiously ‘Neutral’ Austria…

Starting 1^st October, 2017 the ‘burqa’ will no longer be entertained in the streets of Austria. The law opines that those who break it will be charged a sum of 150 Euros. The law also induces supervision of the kind of materials found in the state, prohibiting any kind of extremist material, while also requiring immigrants in the state to sign an ‘integration program’.

Why this ban now?

There is concern and a general trend seen among European countries in attempts to maintain security. Since 2015, the country has received 90,000 asylum seekers. Austria, predominantly Christian is home to around 600,000 Muslims in a population of over 8 million. It is the latest European state to impose such a ban that will also require asylum seekers to understand basic European values and the German language.

There is criticism following this ban, as some argue that it is discriminatory in nature. Austria’s President, Alexander Van der Bellen has openly opposed the ban, arguing that it is every woman’s right to wear what she wants. 

Europe Taking To Its Court for ‘Neutrality’

France was the first among the European countries to impose such a ban in the year 2011. Netherlands implemented the partial ban in 2015. Belgium and Bulgaria had also taken into effect this ban. In Germany, the ban is implemented on every individual in the state, public servants included.

Lawmakers assert that it is the duty of a state to incorporate a ‘religiously neutral environment’. The ban on the face-covering veil will have exceptions only for workers who are working in heavy duty construction sites, wherein it is hazardous for health reasons.

Will ‘Neutrality’ Really Be Perceived As Neutrality?

The banning of the ‘burqa’ may affect the sentiments of the Muslim community residing in different parts of Europe. The recent events in Europe have to a certain degree, driven the European policy makers to implement policies in the name of ‘security’ and now ‘neutrality’.

If the law is subjected to all religions in the Country, in hopes of integrating it to be ‘religiously neutral’ then it may be regarded as ‘just’ but then again if it fails to convey complete neutrality as it affects only the Muslim population of women, then it may be perceived otherwise by this affected population.  

Although, lawmakers do assert that the law is effective and acting on all people who cover or veil their faces with scarves, chador and other pieces of facial coverings. The banning of this clothing is part of a larger initiative, an ‘integrative program’ for the asylum seekers in Austria.