Portugal Bans Full-Face Veils in Public, With Fines Up to €3,000
Portugal has passed a law banning face coverings that conceal a person’s identity in public spaces. The measure is expected to affect the wearing of burkas and niqabs, not the regular hijab that leaves the face visible. Violators may face fines ranging from €150 to €3,000. Exceptions apply for medical, professional, artistic and weather-related reasons, as well as in places of worship, diplomatic missions and aircraft. The law also criminalises forcing someone to cover their face because of their gender, religion, age or origin. Supporters say it promotes identification and social trust, while critics argue that it could be unconstitutional and encourage Islamophobia.
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