Portugal’s Parliament has approved at committee stage a bill that would restrict the wearing of face coverings in public spaces, with supporters arguing that the measure is necessary to improve public security and allow easier identification of individuals.

The proposal received backing from the Social Democratic Party, PSD, Chega, Liberal Initiative, IL, and CDS, while left-wing parties opposed the legislation.

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The bill was initially introduced by Chega under the name “Burka Law” but was later revised by the PSD to present the measure as a broader public safety regulation rather than a law specifically focused on Islamic face veils.

Under the approved version, individuals who violate the proposed restrictions could face administrative fines. Penalties would range from €150 to €750 for negligent breaches and from €400 to €3,000 for intentional violations.

Supporters of the proposal argue that the measure would enhance public safety by allowing authorities to identify individuals more easily in public spaces.

Chega and Liberal Initiative have also argued that the legislation would prevent people from concealing their identities through face coverings worn for religious reasons.

Opponents of the proposal have criticised the bill, arguing that it could affect religious freedoms and disproportionately impact Muslim women who wear face veils.

The legislation must still pass through the remaining stages of Portugal’s parliamentary process before it can be enacted into law.