Slovenian NSi leader proposes ban on burkas and niqabs

Jernej Vrtovec, president of the NSi party, has proposed a potential legal ban on burkas and niqabs in schools, public institutions, and public spaces in Slovenia. Citing the example of Italy, Vrtovec stated during a party congress that such face coverings do not belong in public life and that the party would fight to ensure women are not required to cover their faces.

The Islamic Community in Slovenia has responded by stating that full face covering is an extremely rare phenomenon within the country. They noted that they have no data suggesting students in Slovenian schools wear burkas or niqabs, suggesting the debate may be used for political mobilization.

The community emphasized the need to distinguish between the hijab, which leaves the face visible, and the niqab or burka. They expressed concern that the discourse could create a false impression that women wearing hijabs are a threat or unwelcome, potentially undermining Slovenia's multiculturalism and religious freedom.