The Dutch cabinet on Friday backed a partial ban on the burqa, niqab, and other full-face coverings worn by some Muslim women, despite insistance that the ban “does not have any religious background.” Under the new rules, face coverings will be banned in locations that have special security needs, including schools, hospitals, and public transportation. Women will still be able to dress as they wish everywhere else though. Prime Minister Mark Rutte said the compromise was an attempt “to find a balance between people’s freedom to wear the clothes they want and the importance of mutual and recognizable communication.”
