Russian Supreme Court Upholds Hijab Ban In Region's Schools

Russia's Supreme court yesterday affirmed a lower court decision upholding standards for school students' appearance adopted last October in the region of Stavropol. The regulations ban the wearing of the hijab (headscarf) by Muslim school girls.  The Moscow Times and RIA Novosti report that the lawsuit was filed by members of the Muslim community who claim the regulation violates their constitutionally protected freedom of conscience and religion, and forces high school girls to either transfer to a religious school or study at home. The lower court concluded that the regulations were designed to promote equality among students of different denominations and faiths. The Supreme Court agreed, holding that the rules do not violate freedom of religion or infringe on the right to an education.