Now You Can't Drive with a Face Veil (Niqab) in Darmstadt - Court Decision
Driving without facial coverage is prohibited - Rules - Ban on Facial Coverings While Driving - Court Ruling
Ready to hit the road? Think again if you're planning to don a face veil, otherwise known as a niqab. The Higher Administrative Court (VGH) in Kassel recently ruled that covering your face while driving is a no-go, following a case from Darmstadt.
A woman filed a lawsuit seeking a religious exception to the general ban on veils while driving, but the courts weren't buying it. Even with the visible eye area, identification from things like speed camera photos isn't possible, the VGH stated. Besides, the general ban on veils contributes to road safety and is constitutional, according to the courts.
The woman argues that the rule infringes on her freedom of religion, but the courts maintain a different perspective. The VGH declined to entertain an appeal against the ruling, leaving the Government Presidency of Darmstadt to make a final decision on her application.
Sound strange? Let's delve a bit deeper. In Germany, while there's no federal ban on niqabs when driving, road safety rules apply. Wearing a burqa behind the wheel is generally frowned upon due to safety concerns, although a blanket ban on niqabs for drivers doesn't exist.
In certain German states, female teachers may face restrictions on wearing the hijab, but it's a different story for drivers and public activities outside of professional settings. So, while there's no specific ban on niqabs for drivers in Darmstadt, keep in mind that any face covering must not obstruct your vision or jeopardize safe driving practices.
PM VGH Kassel
- Face veil
- Car
- Darmstadt
- VGH
- Exception permit
- Administrative Court
- Higher Administrative Court
- Road safety
- Hijab
- Religious freedom
- Amidst ongoing discussions about religious freedom and clothing, it's worth noting that the Higher Administrative Court (VGH) in Kassel rules against the use of face veils (niqabs) during driving, even if the specific case occurred in Darmstadt.
- In the realms of science, health-and-wellness, and women's health, it is essential to foster vocational training programs to empower women, especially those in communities with such prohibitions, enabling them to pursue careers beyond teaching, thus embracing a broader spectrum of professional opportunities.
