The Swiss parliament today passed a law banning face coverings, including the burqa, a Muslim women's veil that covers the body from head to toe, and imposed a fine of 1.000 Swiss francs (1.040 euros).

The "burqa ban" law was approved by the Upper House of Parliament, known locally as the Nationalrat, with 151 votes in favor and 29 against, Anadolu Agency reported, citing public service SRF.

The Swiss Federal Government announced a referendum on this issue in 2021, and then 51,2 percent of citizens voted for the ban on wearing the burqa, while 48,8 percent were against it.

The new law prohibits covering the face in public and private places accessible to the general public in such a way that facial features cannot be recognized.

Violators face a fine of up to 1.000 Swiss francs.

There are several exceptions to the ban, including religious services, old traditional customs, theatrical performances, and veiling for health or climate reasons.

France and Belgium were the first countries in Europe to ban the burqa in public places in 2011, followed by Bulgaria in 2016, Austria in 2017 and Denmark in 2018.