U Switzerland out of 8,6 million inhabitants, five percent are Muslims. Only about 30 women wear the niqab, and almost none do wears a burqa, according to research by the University of Lucerne, writes The Indian Express.
Since the beginning of the new year, the decision to ban face coverings in public spaces, widely known as the "burka ban", came into force in Switzerland. Anyone who violates the ban will face a fine of up to 1.000 Swiss francs ($1.144).
This proposal was brought by the right-wing Swiss People's Party (SVP), which campaigned with slogans such as: "Stop extremism."
Although the proposal did not directly mention Islam but also called for a ban on wearing masks in street demonstrations, it was still seen as a "burka ban". The Swiss government, however, objected, arguing that it is not for the state to dictate what women wear, according to a BBC report.
Criticism of the ban
The Muslim community and human rights organizations such as Amnesty International criticized the ban. In a statement, Amnesty International called the ban "a dangerous policy that violates women's rights, including freedom of expression and religion."
After a referendum, in which 51,2 percent of citizens were in favor of this decision, and 48,8 percent were against, the Swiss parliament finally adopted the law banning face coverings in September 2023.
It was only in November 2024 that the government said that the ban would take effect on January 1, 2025.
What exactly is prohibited?
This measure includes a ban on covering the nose, mouth and eyes both in public places and in private buildings accessible to the public. However, there are some exceptions.
The ban does not apply to airplanes or diplomatic-consular premises, and faces can also be covered in places of worship and other holy places.
Face coverings will remain permitted for reasons related to health and safety, for local customs or due to weather conditions, according to the statement. They would be allowed on both artistic and entertainment grounds and for advertising.
If such coverings are needed for personal protection in the exercise of freedom of expression and assembly, they should be allowed on the condition that they have already been approved by the competent authority and that public order is not threatened.
Source: The Indian Express
