Switzerland Bans Face Coverings
Switzerland’s parliament voted to ban face coverings, including religious coverings such as burqas and niqabs, on September 20. This will make Switzerland the 16th European country to have a full or partial ban on the burqa.
Two years in the making: The ban was proposed during a referendum in March 2021 but was criticized as Islamophobic and sexist. It prohibits the covering of the nose, mouth and eyes in public spaces and any private building, therefore inherently baring Muslim women from wearing religious head coverings.
While there are a few exceptions to the ban, including indigenous customs, health masks and religious services, there are no exceptions for the burqa or niqab in public spaces. Violators can be fined up to 1,000 francs (nearly us$1,100).
On September 20, Switzerland’s National Council voted 151-29 in favor of the ban. Other European countries that have imposed some sort of ban on the burqa include France, Bulgaria, Austria, Denmark and the Netherlands.
Europe vs. Islam: There is tension between Europe and Islam. The Bible prophesies that these two religions will clash in the end time. Daniel 11:40 states that “the king of the south,” identified as radical Islam, will push at “the king of the north,” or Europe.
Europe is becoming fed up with Islam’s pushiness, and prophecy says this confrontation will end in violence. To understand how this will play out, read our booklet The King of the South.
