Denmark OKs ban on face coverings

COPENHAGEN, Denmark — Denmark joined some other European countries in deciding Thursday to ban garments that cover the face, including Islamic veils such as the niqab or burqa.

In a 75-30 vote with 74 absentees, Danish lawmakers approved the law presented by the center-right governing coalition. The government says it is not aimed at any religions and does not ban headscarves, turbans or the traditional Jewish skull cap.

However, the law is popularly known as the “Burqa Ban” and is mostly seen as being directed at the dress worn by some conservative Muslim women.

Justice Minister Soeren Pape Poulsen said it will be up to police officers to use their “common sense” when they see people violating the law that goes into effect Aug. 1.

The law allows people to cover their face when there is a “recognizable purpose” such as cold weather or complying with other legal requirements, such as using motorcycle helmets under Danish traffic rules.

First-time offenders risk a fine of $157. Repeat offenses could trigger fines of up to $1,571 or a jail sentence of up to six months.

Anyone forcing a person to wear garments covering the face by using force or threats can be fined or face up to two years in prison.

Austria, France and Belgium have similar laws.