Switzerland has announced that a public ban on facial coverings, often referred to as the “burqa ban,” will be enforced starting January 1, 2025. Approved in a 2021 referendum, the ban has faced strong opposition from Muslim groups, led by the same advocates who called for a ban on new minarets in 2009.
According to an official statement from Switzerland’s Federal Council, violators could face fines up to 1,000 Swiss francs. The initiative, titled “Yes to a ban on full facial coverings,” prohibits individuals from fully covering their faces in public places, including streets, public offices, transportation, stadiums, restaurants, and open spaces.
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Exceptions will be allowed for worship sites, health and safety reasons, weather, and Swiss customs. No other exceptions will apply, even for tourists. The ban will not extend to planes or diplomatic premises.
For personal protection needs during public gatherings, facial coverings may be allowed with permission from relevant authorities.
