On January 1, a controversial law banning the wearing of burqas in public, known as the “burqa ban,” came into effect in Switzerland. About this informs SwissInfo.
Switzerland joins a number of European countries, including France and Austria, that have previously introduced similar restrictions. Violation of the law carries a fine of up to 1,000 Swiss francs (approximately $1,143).
The government noted that the law provides for exceptions: covering the face will be allowed for reasons of safety, health, weather conditions, as well as for artistic or advertising purposes. The ban does not apply to places of worship, diplomatic missions, airplanes or other sacred sites.
The law, which won support in a referendum in 2021, has drawn criticism from Muslim communities. It was initiated by a group that previously advocated a ban on the construction of new minarets in Switzerland in 2009.
It will be recalled that earlier in French public schools it was forbidden to wear the traditional Muslim abaya dress, which covers the entire body.
