Portugal’s Parliament Approves Burqa Ban for Women’s Protection

Portugal Moves to Ban Burqas in Public Spaces

Portugal is set to implement a ban on burqas worn for “sexual or religious motives,” with significant fines for those who do not comply. The bill, introduced by the Chega party, proposes that face veils be prohibited in most public areas, pending approval. Reuters has noted that exceptions will be made for use on airplanes, in diplomatic sites, and at places of worship.

Currently, several European nations, including France, Austria, Belgium, and the Netherlands, have similar full or partial bans in effect. President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa has the option to veto the legislation or refer it to the Constitutional Court for review.

A burqa is defined as a full-body garment worn by many Muslim women, allowing visibility only through a mesh panel covering the eyes.

The fines for wearing a burqa or face veil in public could rise to €4,000, while compelling someone to wear one may entail a prison sentence of up to three years, as reported by Reuters.

During the parliamentary discussions, Chega leader Andre Ventura faced off against several female lawmakers from leftist parties who opposed the bill. Ventura asserted, “Today, we are protecting women in Congress, your daughters, and our daughters from having to one day wear a burqa in this country.”

Andreia Neto, a member of the ruling Social Democratic Party, emphasized before the vote, “This is a debate about equality between men and women. No woman should be forced to cover her face.”

The burqa issue has sparked considerable debate in Europe, with many viewing it as a symbol of sexism and a potential security risk.

Meanwhile, Italy is also pushing a new law aimed at combating “Islamic separatism” and the influence of Sharia law, which would include measures against hate speech and practices like child marriage and forced marriages. This move positions Italy as a latecomer in Europe to the burqa banning trend.

It’s worth mentioning that the demand for burqas increased in Afghanistan following the Taliban’s rise to power, according to a local vendor shared by Breitbart News in 2021.