Portugal approves ban on face coverings in public

Portugal's President Antonio Jose Seguro has officially approved a law that prohibits the complete covering of the face in public areas. This new regulation, initially proposed by the far-right and subsequently passed by parliament, will notably impact women who wear the burqa and niqab.

President Seguro stated that faces are a fundamental element of human identity and communication. However, he acknowledged that the issue carries significant social and cultural sensitivities. The law, widely referred to in the Portuguese press as the "burqa ban," was approved by parliament in July. The ruling right-wing coalition and far-right parties supported the legislation, while left-wing parties opposed it.

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The face is considered a fundamental element of people's identity and communication.

The regulation stipulates that clothing that conceals a person's face or prevents their identification in public spaces is forbidden. It also explicitly prohibits forcing anyone to cover their face based on gender, religion, age, or origin. Those who violate the ban could face fines between 150 and 3,000 Euros. Certain exceptions are permitted, including for health reasons, professional activities, artistic performances, and specific climate conditions. Places like houses of worship, diplomatic missions, and airplanes are also exempt from the ban.

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It is a subject that carries high social and cultural sensitivity.