Portugal bans full-face veils in public spaces

The President stated that the face is a central element of human identity and communication, acknowledging the social and cultural sensitivity of the issue. The law, referred to by local media as "the burqa law," was passed by Parliament in July with support from the governmental right-wing coalition and the far-right, while left-wing parties opposed it. It forbids wearing clothing that obscures the face or prevents identification in public areas, and also prohibits compelling individuals to cover their faces due to gender, religion, age, or origin.

Violators face fines ranging from 150 to 3,000 euros. Exceptions are made for health reasons, professional, artistic, or climatic motives, as well as in places of worship, diplomatic representations, and on airplanes.