Portugal enforces ban on face coverings in public places
President António José Seguro signed legislation on Wednesday banning face coverings in public spaces, a move widely seen as targeting women who wear the burqa or niqab.
Source: Astro Awani · August 19, 2026 at 1:01 PM · AI-assisted report
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KUALA LUMPUR, 19 AUGUST 2026 —
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President António José Seguro signed legislation on Wednesday banning face coverings in public spaces, a move widely seen as targeting women who wear the burqa or niqab.
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In a statement, Seguro said a person’s face is central to identity and human interaction, according to AFP. Parliament approved the bill in July with support from the governing right-wing coalition and other right-leaning parties, while left-wing parties opposed it. The law forbids clothing designed to conceal the face or hinder identification in public, and also prohibits forcing someone to cover their face on the basis of gender, religion, age or origin.
Human rights groups argue the law restricts women’s freedom to choose how they dress and infringes religious liberty. Seguro acknowledged the measure addresses highly sensitive social and cultural issues in Portugal. Violators face fines between €150 and €3,000 (RM760–RM15,200).
Exceptions cover health needs, employment, artistic expression, weather conditions, places of worship, diplomatic premises and aircraft.