Portugal bans face coverings in public spaces amid criticism

Portugal has officially banned face coverings in public spaces, a move that has drawn significant criticism for allegedly targeting Muslim women who wear full-face veils. President António José Seguro signed the legislation into law after its approval by parliament in July. The new law prohibits any clothing or items designed to conceal a person's face or hinder identification in public areas.

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The face must be considered a central element of human identity and communication.

Furthermore, the legislation makes it an offense to compel another person to cover their face based on gender, religion, age, or origin. President Seguro defended the measure, stating that the face is crucial for human interaction and identity. "The face must be considered a central element of human identity and communication," he said in a statement.

The legislation, referred to by Portuguese media as the "burqa law," received backing from the governing right-wing coalition and far-right parties, while left-wing parties opposed it. Violators could face fines ranging from €150 to €3,000. However, the law includes exemptions for health, professional, artistic, and weather-related reasons. It also does not apply within places of worship, diplomatic missions, or on aircraft.

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The face must be considered a central element of human identity and communication.

Opposition parties and legal organizations have voiced concerns about the law's potential impact on religious freedom and its risk of fostering discrimination against Muslim communities. The Portuguese Socialist Party (PS) described the legislation as having an "Islamophobic purpose," while the Portuguese Communist Party (PCP) argued it was aimed at fueling hostility towards minority groups rather than addressing women's rights or security. Livre accused right-wing parties of creating a "moral panic over a supposed Islamic invasion."

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The legislation, referred to by Portuguese media as the “burqa law”, was backed by the governing right-wing coalition and far-right parties, while left-wing parties opposed it.

Supporters of the law emphasize its role in identification and public communication. President Seguro acknowledged the issue's "great social and cultural sensitivity." Portugal now joins several European countries that have implemented restrictions on face coverings, though the specifics and exemptions vary.

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The PS described the legislation as having an “Islamophobic purpose”.