Displaying Author: Farid Hafez

Article

17 Mar 2026 | Policy/Law

Monitoring Islamophobia in Europe for 10 years: Some observations

We take March 15, the UN International Day to Combat Islamophobia, as an opportunity to reflect upon 10 years of publishing the yearly European Islamophobia Report, where more than 30 authors have published over 25 country reports covering the state and development of Islamophobia since 2015. While far from comprehensive, this reflection provides insights in the making of the report, the achievements, worsening trends, as well as a short outlook on the future. read the complete article

Report

09 Oct 2025 | Law Enforcement

Austrian Hijab Ban Survey: What Muslim women think

The Austrian Hijab Ban Survey sheds light on how Muslim women and girls in Austria view the government’s proposed legislation banning the hijab in schools up to the 8th grade. Conducted shortly after the bill’s announcement on 10 September 2025, the survey collected responses from almost 1,000 Muslim women in Austria, offering a rare insight into the voices most directly affected. The findings are striking: 93% of respondents oppose the ban. The results further challenge claims that the hijab negatively impacts education or personal development, with overwhelming majorities disputing such arguments. Also, Muslim women who do not wear the hijab expressed strong opposition to the law. Politically, most respondents supported the Social Democrats (SPÖ), despite the party’s participation in the coalition pushing the ban, while many also favored smaller parties, but clearly rejected the two most vocal parties supporting the bill, the Conservatives (ÖVP) and the Liberals (NEOS), polling with only 1 percent each. Overall, the survey highlights both the broad rejection of the hijab ban among Muslim women and the gap between political rhetoric and the lived experiences of Austria’s Muslim community. read the complete article