Berlin: The European Union Court ruled Thursday that employers could prohibit the use of symbols of religious or political beliefs, such as headscarves.
But the tribunal based in Luxembourg said in court decisions in 27 block member countries had to burden whether the ban was in accordance with the “sincere need” in the part of the employer.
They also have to consider the rights and interests of employees, including considering national legislation to religious freedom, he said.
This case was taken to the European Union Justice Court by two women in Germany who chose to wear Islamic headscarves at their workplace.
One of them serves as a special requirement for caregivers while the other is a sales and cashier assistant.
Both filed legal complaints before the German court, which in turn referred to the UE court.