[JURIST] A Belgian parliamentary committee voted unanimously Wednesday to ban the Islamic burqa and other “full veils” from being worn in public. The proposed legislation applies to areas “accessible to the public” or areas meant for “public use or to provide public services.” Violators could face a penalty of up to seven days in jail or a fine of 15 to 25 euros. The proposed law does not impose restrictions on traditional Muslim headscarves, and it provides for groups to apply for a temporary exemption for festivals or other events. The proposed ban has ignited concern among some who view it as an “attack on civil liberties.” If approved by Parliament, Belgium will be the first European nation to impose a nationwide restriction on traditional face-covering veils. The lower house of parliament is scheduled to vote on the bill on April 22.
France has also been pressing for a ban on the burqa. Earlier this week, the French Council of State advised the French government that a complete ban on full Islamic veils risks violating the French Constitution and the European Convention on Human Rights. Last week, French President Nicholas Sarkozy announced that the government will introduce legislation to ban traditional Muslim face veils in public places. Sarkozy’s announcement came just weeks after a French parliamentary commission charged with investigating whether to enact laws banning the wearing of burqas released its report calling for a partial ban that would apply in public facilities, including hospitals, schools, and public transportation, and to any individual attempting to receive public services. Also last week, lawmakers in Quebec introduced a bill that would ban women wearing full face veils from public services, such as receiving care at a hospital or going to a public university.