What does the partial ban on face coverings entail?

This is laid down in the Face Coverings (Partial Ban) Act (Dutch). This Act is sometimes referred to as the ‘burka ban’ or ‘nikab ban’. The Act is intended to prevent face coverings being worn in places where it is necessary to recognise each other and see each other’s faces.

Locations where face coverings are banned

The ban on wearing face coverings applies in and around the buildings of healthcare institutions, educational institutions and government organisations and on public transport. ‘Face covering’ refers to any item of clothing that prevents your face being identified. This includes balaclavas, burkas, nikabs, full-face motorcycle helmets and masks. The ban does not apply to headscarves, face paint and hats. A member of staff may inform you that a ban is in place and ask you to either leave the premises or remove your face covering. If you refuse to comply, the staff member can call the police, who may fine you.

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Transcript

1. In a free country like the Netherlands everyone has, in principle, the right to dress as they wish, regardless of what others think.
2. However, this freedom is restricted in certain locations where people need to recognise and see each other’s faces. Face coverings are therefore not permitted in public buildings, in healthcare and educational institutions and on public transport.
3. Face coverings are items of clothing that completely cover a person’s face or only show their eyes.
4. People who continue to wear face coverings in these locations may be asked by a member of staff to remove the face covering or leave. If necessary, the police may be called and the person may be fined.
5. Face coverings are, however, permitted in these locations if they are necessary for a person to participate in a sport, carry out a job, or to participate in an event or party.