Ban The Burka?, a current issue in some EU countries

[grumpy]

For those who have never heard the term "burka", it refers to a veil covering the face, worn by muslim women in countries with muslim majorities aswell as many european states.
Belgium has recently banned the wearing of face coverings by law in public places and implemented a fine system for those caught wearing it. France,Italy and Spain are still considering future legislation on the topic
Is this justifiable, in your opinion, or a sign of intolerance?

[Geneo]

I agree with Ed, however we have to add more to this...why would countries like Belgium or even France consider banning this " burkah" or "burqah" ? Because if the secular tradition of those states - whereby they are not seen or will not overtly support the Catholic clergy nor would they be seen as making religious comments or winking at the Pope...likewise they cannot support over-religious public displays in public schools, government buildings, where secularism is enshrined.

Also it becomes another issue...a cultural one. When we visit countries of the Arab world, when in the streets, foreigners are impressed that they should dress modestly - for women this means the knees must be covered, hair as well as well as arms...not considering 90 degree weather. This is not even including Saudi Arabia where even the Greek ambassador's wife some years ago was beaten with a stick by religious police for not stopping for prayer.

Now compared to that, what European countries are asking for is not much...and when you immigrate somewhere it is expected you have to live somewhat by the local rules or at least adapt somewhat...as foreigners would in the Arab world today when visiting for example.

Also lets not forget...these countries in the Arab world were much more "westernized" in the period of 1890-1960's than they are today. If you watch old Egyptian films from the 50's and even 60's you will see women dressed in western clothes, not covering up...they were more open societies than today. Iran is a sad example of a country that was westernized, modern, forward thinking, and took 1,000 steps backwards with the cavemen ayatollah's took over in 1979...now women in that country can not even drive or walk alone...

So in my modest opinion, European countries should ban this burkah, or even head scarfs...for women...do we want to see women covered up? hell no. Not me at least. Turkey has done well to not allow burka's by law...and should make it more effective...now the other countries should follow suit.

This has to be done while addressing also the assimilation or welcomness of these immigrants to European society, naturally.