Germany’s highest court has ruled on a controversial question about religion and the justice system.
A Muslim law graduate challenged restrictions that prevented her from serving as a judge while wearing a hijab. She argued the rule violated her religious freedom and blocked her professional future.
But Germany’s Federal Constitutional Court sided with the state. The judges ruled that courts must appear religiously neutral to every citizen who enters a courtroom. Because of that principle, states can restrict visible religious symbols for judicial officials.
Supporters say the decision protects the impartial image of the justice system. Critics say it forces religious minorities to choose between their faith and their careers.
The ruling has reignited a wider debate in Europe: whether neutrality in public institutions means removing religion from view, or making room for it.
