France to Enforce Muslim Veil Ban Starting April 11
VOA News: France will next month begin enforcing a nationwide ban on full Islamic face veils. The ban, which goes into effect April 11, imposes a fine of about $209 for wearing full-face coverings such as the niqab or burqa in public — except in places of worship.
Forcing a woman to wear a burqa will carry a prison sentence of up to a year, or a steep fine. France passed the controversial law on Islamic veils last year with supporters saying it protects French values such as women's rights and secularism. But critics say it stigmatizes Muslims.
The law forbids wearing any garment concealing the face on public roads, public transport, shops, schools, courtrooms, hospitals and government buildings.
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