Is it time to ban the Burka?

Several European countries including France, Belgium, Denmark and the Netherlands have banned full-face coverings in public for security and social cohesion reasons. In July 2026 Portugal's parliament advanced a bill to ban face-covering garments such as the burqa and niqab in most public spaces, prompting renewed calls in the UK from figures like Sammy Woodhouse and Restore Britain supporters. The UK has no national ban though some private venues and transport operators restrict face coverings.