| Denmark’s parliament today passed a bill prohibiting the wearing of garments that cover the face in public.
This follows countries like Belgium, Austria, and Bulgaria, which have introduced a similar ban. Many see this law as an attack on the dressing of conservative Muslim women that includes the niqab and burqa, with concerns over growing Islamophobia in Europe.
The law does not include protective masks, motorcycle helmets, winter clothing such as scarves, or costumes and masks worn during a carnival or Halloween.
First-time offenders will be fined 1,000 kroner (£134, $157) and repeat offenders will be fined 10,000 kroner or spend six months in jail.
Justice Minister, Soeren Pape Poulsen told police officers that the ban will be enforced from August 1, and should be applied with “common sense”.
Photo Credit: Daily Express |
