GENEVA — Switzerland’s lower house of parliament voted on Wednesday to pass a final legislative measure prohibiting face coverings, including burqas worn by some Muslim women.

The National Council approved the legislation with a vote of 151-29, following its previous approval by the upper house. The law, championed by the right-wing populist Swiss People’s Party, was passed despite objections raised by centrists and the Greens.

This legislative move comes after a nationwide referendum two years ago in which Swiss voters narrowly approved a ban on niqabs (which leave slits for the eyes), burqas, ski masks, and bandannas, which are sometimes worn by protesters.

With the lower house vote, parliament has officially enshrined the ban into federal law and imposed a fine of up to 1,000 Swiss francs (approximately $1,100) for those found in violation.

The law prohibits the covering of the nose, mouth, and eyes in both public spaces and private buildings accessible to the public, though certain exceptions are permitted.

It is important to note that very few women in Switzerland wear full face coverings like burqas, which are more commonly associated with Afghanistan. However, two Swiss cantons, southern Ticino and northern St. Gallen, already have similar laws in place. This national legislation aligns Switzerland with countries like Belgium and France that have implemented comparable measures.

Source: with agencies