BERLIN (AP) — Swiss voters have narrowly approved a proposal to ban face coverings, both the niqabs and burqas worn by a few Muslim women in the country and the ski masks and bandannas used by protesters. The measure will outlaw covering the face in public places. It foresees exceptions at religious sites and for security and health reasons, such as the masks people are wearing to protect against COVID-19, as well as for traditional Carnival celebrations. The Swiss government had opposed the measure, calling it a response to “marginal” issue that could hurt tourism. In the end, 51.2% of voters supported the plan in Sunday’s referendum.
Swiss narrowly back proposal to ban face coverings in public
