Switzerland Enforces First Nationwide Fine Under ‘Burqa Ban’

Switzerland issued the first fine under the country’s nationwide face-covering ban after a woman in Zurich wore a burqa in public. The woman refused to pay the fine, which totalled 100 Swiss francs($110), which led to further legal proceedings.

The law bans face coverings in public, including burqas, niqabs, masks, and balaclavas. The ban was approved in a 2021  Swiss referendum with 51.2% support, led by the right-wing Swiss People’s Party.

Critics say it unfairly targets Muslims, though only a small minority wear face veils.

Fines start at 100 francs and can rise to 1,000 francs in court. Similar bans exist in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Italy, and more.