Spain’s Lleida Introduces Ban on Burqa and Niqab in Public Spaces

Spain’s Lleida Introduces Ban on Burqa and Niqab in Public Spaces
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The city of Lleida in Spain’s northeastern Catalonia region has approved regulations prohibiting the wearing of face-covering garments such as the burqa and niqab in public areas, with fines planned for violations.

The Lleida City Council adopted the measure as part of its updated “Civic Behavior and Coexistence” regulations, which restrict the use of clothing that completely covers the face in public spaces.

Under the new rules, individuals who violate the ban on burqas and niqabs may face fines ranging from €400 to €750. Places of worship and other locations where such clothing is permitted are exempt from the regulation.

The decision was approved by the municipal government led by the Catalan Socialist Party (PSC) and Junts per Catalunya.

Lleida Mayor Félix Larrosa said the measure was adopted following consultations with representatives of the city’s Muslim community. According to local authorities, Muslims make up around 9% of Lleida’s population.

The issue of restrictions on face-covering garments has recently returned to public debate in Europe following comments by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Italy’s government has also approved regulations banning face-covering garments such as the burqa and niqab in schools.

The measures in Spain and Italy have renewed discussions across Europe over the balance between public regulations, security considerations, cultural practices and religious freedom.