The Bulgarian government approved a draft bill banning hijab and other religious symbols in schools. “We express our disagreement and bitterness with this decision,” said Hussein Hafazov, of the Chief Mufti office. Hafazov also said that the move would increase community tensions in Bulgaria, citing arson attacks on mosques and other Muslim buildings, and growing discrimination against girls wearing the garment in certain circumstances. The bill still needs to be approved by the Bulgarian parliament.
