Portugal’s parliament has officially approved a controversial bill banning the wearing of full-face veils such as the burqa and niqab in most public spaces, introducing fines of up to €4,000 for violations.
The bill, proposed by the far-right Chega Party and supported by several center-right lawmakers, prohibits any clothing “intended to conceal or obscure the face” for religious or gender-related reasons. Those found forcing others to wear such garments could face up to three years in prison.
Supporters of the measure argue it promotes gender equality, social cohesion, and public safety, while critics condemn it as a direct attack on religious freedom and minority rights.
Opposition parties have called the law discriminatory, warning that it unfairly targets Muslim women, while advocates insist it aligns Portugal with other European nations such as France, Belgium, and Austria, which have enacted similar bans.
The legislation now awaits final approval and potential review by the Constitutional Court before it can take effect nationwide.
