Berlin Allows Muslim Teachers to Wear Hijab

The German state of Berlin will permit Muslim teachers to wear hijab (veil), authorities confirmed on Wednesday.

Veil is a piece of clothing is intended to cover some part of the head or face. The German government plans to allow hijab in general, yet it can be restricted in individual cases if it poses a danger to school peace.

Berlin's education department sent the official letter to school teachers.

According to Berlin's neutrality act that prevents civil servants from wearing religious clothing and symbols, teachers in the city were banned from wearing headscarves since 2005.

Nevertheless, several court rulings in recent years highlighted that a blanket ban on headscarves constitutes discrimination, and violates religious freedom guaranteed by the constitution.

The Senate Department for Education, Youth, and Family told school directors that they should adhere to the recent court rulings.