By January, Switzerland bans face coverage in public spaces

This ban, passed by a slight margin of votes in a 2021 referendum and was condemned by Muslim associations, was initiated by the same group that organised the ban on new minarets in 2009.

The Federal Governing Council said in a statement it has set the date for the start of the ban and that anyone who wrongfully violates it would face a fine of up to 1,000 Swiss francs.

The ban is not valid for aircraft or diplomatic and consular facilities, while faces can be covered in places of worship and other sacred sites, the government said.

Facial coverage will remain permitted for health and security reasons, local customs or weather conditions, she said. Also allowed for artistic and entertainment reasons, as well as advertising, she added.

If such coverage is needed for personal protection in exercising freedom of expression and union, they should be allowed if the responsible authority has already approved and will not be harmed public order, the statement said. /rel