The Dutch government is set to impose a ban on the burqa in both schools and government offices – a retreat from the previous government’s plan for a general ban. The cabinet decided against a broad ban on the garment, which generally covers all expose areas but the eyes, but said that such a move would violate the principle of freedom of religion.
The Muslim community said that only about 50 women nationwide are reported to wear the burqa. An Interior Ministry spokesperson said that a final decision on the suggested banning in schools and government has not yet been made.
