Swiss voters on course to approve ‘burqa ban’

With results in from 22 of federal Switzerland’s 26 cantons, 54 percent of voters were in favour of outlawing facial coverings.

A far-right proposal to ban facial coverings in Switzerland appears to be heading for a narrow victory in a binding referendum viewed as a test of attitudes towards Muslims. With results in from 22 of federal Switzerland’s 26 cantons, 54 percent of voters were in favour of outlawing the burqa and the niqab. The final results are due later on Sunday. The proposal under the Swiss system of direct democracy does not mention Islam directly and also aims to stop violent street protesters from wearing masks, yet local politicians, media and campaigners have dubbed it the “burqa ban”.