Fines of up to 134 euros, tenfold if there are relapsers. Even hoods and fake beards that hide the face are forbidden. For Amnesty International, the law violates freedom of expression and religion. Muslims in Denmark are 4% of the population.
Copenhagen (AsiaNews / Agencies) - From now on it will be forbidden to wear the full Islamic veil (burka or niqab) in a public place. Those who violate the ban can be fined. The Danish parliament established it yesterday with 75 votes against 30 and it was voted by center-right parties, but also by the socialists. Denmark thus aligns itself with other European countries with similar legislation, such as France and Belgium.
From August 1, the date of entry into force of the law, any infringement will be punished with a fine of 1000 Danish crowns (134 euros). If the infringement is repeated, the fine rises to 10 thousand crowns (1340 euros).
According to Amnesty International, the ban is "disproportionate and violates the rights to freedom of expression and religion". The ban also prohibits other accessories that hide the face, such as hoods and fake beards.
Denmark is home to about 270,000 Muslims (4%) of a population of 5.6 million. Several women with niqab attended the parliamentary debate (see photo).