Austrian court rules ski resort hotel’s burkini ban is discriminatory
Summary
An Austrian court ruled that a hotel’s ban on burkinis discriminated against two Muslim women. The court said the hotel’s hygiene claim was not valid and upheld a fine against the hotel for banning the swimsuit.Key Facts
- The hotel is located in Saint Johann im Pongau, a ski resort in western Austria.
- The two women were prevented from wearing burkinis, a full-body swimsuit worn by some Muslim women.
- The hotel manager argued the burkini was unhygienic and upset other guests.
- The women filed a complaint, leading to a €100 fine for the hotel in February.
- The hotel appealed, but the Salzburg court rejected the appeal and added a €20 fee for court costs.
- The court stated the swimwear is made from the same material as other swimsuits, so the hygiene argument was not valid.
- Austria bans face coverings like the burqa and niqab but not the burkini since it leaves the face uncovered.
- The ruling does not create a nationwide rule, as discrimination laws allow some exceptions under certain conditions.
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