By January 1st Switzerland bans “Burca” in public spaces

Switzerland will stop facial coverage in public spaces.

This decision takes effect from January 1st 2025.

This was made known through a statement by the Swiss government on Wednesday.

The “Burka halting”, as it is otherwise known, had gone to a 2021 referendum that was sentenced by Muslim associations, was initiated by the same group that organised the ban on new minarets in 2009.

According to the Federal Council, anyone covering his face will be fined up to 1000 francs, Swiss media write.

This ban is not worth aircraft and diplomatic and consular facilities, while faces can be covered in places of worship, the government has said.

Facial coverage will remain permitted for health and security reasons, local customs or weather conditions, the government added.

It will also be allowed for artistic or entertainment purposes, as well as advertising.

“If these coverage is necessary for personal protection in exercising freedom of expression, they should be allowed if the authority is responsible.