Should Muslim Teachers be Allowed to Wear Headscarves?

Germany's top court has ruled that Muslim teachers may wear headscarves in class, as long as it does not cause 'disruption' in the school. The ban, which currently applies in half of the country's 16 states, was considered unconstitutional on the basis that it violates the right to religious freedom.

The Central Council of Muslims in Germany says the ruling is "very gratifying". However, there are fears that this decision will further fuel a debate about what some nationalist groups - including the Pegida movement - call the "Islamisation" of their country.

Should all religious symbols - including crucifixes and skullcaps - be banned from schools? Or should exceptions be made? Are these bans an attack on the right to religious freedom?

(Photo: Classroom with pupils and teacher wearing headscarves. Credit: Remy Gabalda/AFP/Getty Images