The banning of burqa, veils or full-face veils in the Netherlands has now entered into force. The wearing of the veil is no longer allowed in public institutions, such as schools, hospitals, government offices, and public transport such as buses and trains.

The Dutch Interior Ministry urged local institutions and relevant bodies to enforce the ban. Security officials now have the right to ask veiled women to reveal their faces. If they refuse, they can be prevented from entering public buildings or face fines of at least 150 euros ($ 167).

The ban also applies to other face caps, such as helmets that cover the entire face or masks.

France was the first European country to ban veils in 2011, and several countries followed suit. In the Netherlands, there are about 150 women wearing the niqab regularly.