Belgian Parliament Pushes toward Veil Ban
April 2, 2010
By: Benjamin Russell

The Belgian government took a major step toward banning the Muslim burqa, this week, when a parliamentary committee unanimously passed a proposal that would ban the wearing of garments that fully or partially cover the face in public spaces. Should the measure pass a full parliament vote later this month, anyone caught with their face covered in public could face fines or a week in prison, according to the New York Times.  The proposal would go into effect as early as this summer. 

Though the language of the bill does not specifically address the Muslim burqa or niqab, the veils are understood to be its primary target, according to the Guardian.  “This is a very strong signal that is being sent to Islamists,” the French-speaking liberal deputy Denis Ducarme said, adding that he was “proud that Belgium would be the first country in Europe which dares to legislate on this sensitive matter.”

The burqa is an uncommon sight in Belgium, home to about 650,000 Muslims, but while the practical impact of the legislation may be minimal, its political importance could be significant, according to the Daily Mail.

Daniel Bacquelaine, the liberal MP who proposed the bill, said: "We cannot allow someone to claim the right to look at others without being seen.  It is necessary that the law forbids the wearing of clothes that totally mask and enclose an individual. Wearing the burqa in public is not compatible with an open, liberal, tolerant society."

Isabelle Praile of the Muslim Executive of Belgium raised concerns over the move.  “Will it be the Islamic veil tomorrow and the Sikh turban the day after?” she said.  “I am against the imposition of such clothing, but also against banning it.”

Sources:

The Guardian – Belgium Moves Towards Public Ban on Burqa and Niqab

NY Times – Belgium Moves to Ban Burqas Worn in Public

Daily Mail - Belgium Set to Become First European Country to Ban the Burka

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