Bern: The lower house of parliament in Switzerland has taken a step by giving its approval to a ban on face coverings, including burqas often worn by some Muslim women. The National Council, with a vote count of 151-29, supported the legislation, which had previously received approval from the House. This move was led by the Swiss Peoples Party, a wing party, despite concerns raised by centrist and Green party members.
The origins of this ban can be traced back to a referendum held two years ago when Swiss voters narrowly approved the prohibition of niqabs (which have slits for the eyes) burqas, well as ski masks and bandannas occasionally worn by protesters.
With the house’s vote, the ban is now officially part of the law and comes with a fine of up to 1,000 Swiss francs (approximately $1,100) for those found in violation. This law extends to covering the nose, mouth, and eyes in both spaces and private buildings to the public, with certain exceptions allowed.
It’s worth noting that few women in Switzerland wear full face coverings like burqas; these are commonly associated with attire in Afghanistan.
Interestingly it is worth mentioning that two Swiss regions, Ticino, in the part and St. Gallen in the northern part, have already put into effect similar regulations. This new law at a level brings Switzerland in line with countries such as Belgium and France which have previously taken actions to oversee the use of face coverings in public areas and buildings accessible to the general public.