No More Burqa And Niqab In Norway Schools

Norway has passed a bill in its parliament effectively banning the burqa and the niqab in educational institutions. To put it in milder, more politically correct language, clothing that partially or fully covers the face shall no more be worn at institutions of learning in the country.

The bill, applicable to both teachers and students, as well as those working in daycare centres, was backed by a majority of Norwegian legislators, over a three-day voting period. Members of the Socialist Left, Green and Red parties voted against the bill.

Åshild Bruun-Gundersen, an MP of the Progress Party who voted in favour of the bill, was elated. She said soon, efforts will be made to ban such clothing in public spaces as well. A similar bill was passed by neighbouring country Denmark last week, inviting censure from activist groups such as Amnesty International.

The niqab is a full veil with a small slit for the eyes, while the burqa is a full veil that covers the head and body with a mesh screen over the eyes.