The Union of International Democrats (UID) has called for a balanced approach to religious freedom and school order following a Berlin court ruling that upheld a school’s restriction on the demonstrative practice of religious rituals. In a statement dated October 19, the organisation expressed concern over the decision and urged authorities to pursue practical and proportionate solutions through dialogue.
The Berlin Administrative Court ruled on October 15 that a secondary school could maintain a provision in its school regulations prohibiting the demonstrative practice of religious rituals where the restriction was considered necessary to protect the school environment. The court dismissed a challenge brought by the Society for Civil Rights (Gesellschaft für Freiheitsrechte, GFF).
The GFF argued that the rule particularly disadvantaged Muslim students because Islamic daily prayers can fall during school hours and involve visible physical movements. The organisation also challenged the school’s failure to provide a dedicated space for prayer, arguing that the restriction limited students’ ability to practise their religion.
The court acknowledged that, although the rule applied to all religions, Muslim students were disproportionately affected. However, it found the restriction justified in the specific circumstances of the school, citing longstanding religious conflicts and concerns about maintaining a stable learning environment. The ruling is not yet legally final. Any appeal to the Higher Administrative Court of Berlin-Brandenburg would first require permission to proceed.
In its statement, the UID said religious freedom, school peace and social cohesion should not be treated as opposing principles. It stressed that a tolerant society must respect diverse beliefs and safeguard individual freedoms while also taking account of the public education mandate and the legitimate interests of the wider school community.
The organisation called on the relevant parties to develop workable and proportionate solutions through dialogue. Such measures, it said, should ensure that schools can operate in an orderly manner while allowing students to observe their religious obligations.
Referring to developments in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Italy and Azerbaijan, the UID argued that balancing educational responsibilities with religious freedom remains an important issue across different societies. It said a democratic society demonstrates its strength by protecting fundamental rights, respecting diversity and seeking common ground.
