Dutch ban on burqas in public places takes effect

Besides the burqa, bans on face-covering helmets and hoods have also been placed


Afp August 02, 2019
PHOTO: REUTERS

THE HAGUE: The Netherlands banned the wearing of a face-covering veil, such as a burqa or niqab, in public buildings and on transport from Thursday as a contentious law on the garment worn by some Muslim women came into force.

Between 200 and 400 women are estimated to wear a burqa or niqab in the country of 17 million people.

Muslim women to protest veil ban across Denmark


The Dutch legislation was passed in June 2018 after more than a decade of political debate on the subject. The far-right politician Geert Wilders had proposed the face-covering veil ban back in 2005.

"From now on the wearing of clothing which covers the face is banned in educational facilities, public institutions and buildings, as well as hospitals and public transport," the Dutch interior ministry said in a statement.

First woman fined in Denmark for wearing full-face veil


It added that it was important in such public places to be recognised and seen, which besides the burqa, also bans a face-covering helmet or hood. A person could be fined 150 euros ($165).

However, the public transport sector said it would not stop to make a woman in a burqa get off as it would cause delays. And hospitals also said they would still treat people regardless of what they are wearing.

The Dutch law does not ban the wearing of a burqa on the streets unlike France's ban which took effect in 2010.

Belgium, Denmark and Austria have similar laws.

COMMENTS (1)

Bunny Rabbit | 4 years ago | Reply welcome move. how else to know if its a man or woman inside .
Replying to X

Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.

For more information, please see our Comments FAQ