Switzerland to enforce public burqa ban with hefty fines
From January 2025, a ban on wearing burqas in public spaces will take effect in Switzerland. Individuals who breach this regulation may be fined up to 1,000 Swiss francs, which is equivalent to over 880 British pounds.
A burqa is a type of opaque head covering worn by Muslim women observing the principles of purdah, as well as some Jewish women. Like the niqab, a burqa covers the entire head, leaving only a narrow area around the eyes exposed.
The Swiss have decided to introduce a ban on wearing burqas, which will come into effect on 1st January 2025. The new regulations, commonly referred to as a public face-covering ban, were announced by the Federal Council, who conveyed this information in an official statement.
Ban on wearing burqas. Fines up to 1,000 francs
According to the announcement, people who violate this ban may be fined up to 1,000 Swiss francs (over 880 pounds). However, the new regulations do not include an absolute ban on face-covering in every situation. There are specific exceptions that allow face-covering in certain circumstances.
These exceptions include, among others, situations related to health or safety purposes, which may require face-covering, as well as traditional customs or situations related to artistic activity or freedom of expression. The regulations state that in some locations, such as religious or cultural areas where face-covering is part of tradition, the ban will not be enforced.
Although the new law aims to limit face-covering in public spaces and buildings accessible to the public, its creators emphasize that efforts have been made to balance ensuring public safety and respecting individual rights and freedoms.
