Austria to Commence Burqa Ban from Oct 1, Demands Cohesion of Society

Vienna, Oct 1, 2017: Burqa ban will come into force in Austria on Sunday that bans wearing the full Islamic veil in public places and buildings. The restriction is intended to ensure the cohesion of society in an open society. Any violations of the ban will be penalized with a fine of up to €150 ($177).

The government cites the exemptions under the ban following certain conditions like clown disguises "at cultural events", scarves in cold weather and work wear such as medical masks.

Also Read: Why wear a Burqa to prove Love towards your Religion?

"Acceptance and respect of Austrian values are basic conditions for successful cohabitation between the majority Austrian population and people from third countries living in Austria," government officials told Livemint.

The enactment was brought in by the outgoing centrist government of chancellor Christian Kern.

On 15 October, elections are likely to see the anti-immigration Freedom Party (FPOe) arrive second or third and possibly enter a coalition with Sebastian Kurz of the center-right.

Sebastian Kurz, the Austrian politician has endured considerable numbers of voters from the FPOe, polls show, experts say in part due to him moving to the right on issues such as immigration.

"The immigration seen in recent years is changing out country not in a positive but in a negative way," Kurz told German television in an interview broadcast this week.

Other measures to administer from 1 October will include immigrants signing an "integration contract" and compulsory courses in the German language and "values."