Austria's lower house of parliament has approved a new ban on Muslim headscarves for girls under 14 in schools, reigniting debate over religious freedom and discrimination. The measure, supported by the ruling coalition and the far-right Freedom Party, faces criticism from rights groups and the Muslim community, who argue it infringes on fundamental rights and could fuel anti-Muslim sentiment. The only party to oppose the ban was the Greens, citing constitutional concerns, especially after a similar law was struck down in 2020 for discriminating against Muslims. Government officials defend the ban as a move to protect girls' freedom, while critics warn it may again be deemed unconstitutional.