Published on 27 June 2018

Federal Council wants targeted action instead of a general ban on facial coverings

Bern, 27.6.2018 - The Federal Council rejects the popular ‘Yes to a ban on full facial coverings’ initiative because, as is currently the case, the cantons should decide for themselves whether or not to ban facial coverings in public places. It is making an indirect counter-proposal to the initiative – a targeted response to the problems that it is aware facial coverings can pose. For example, the face must be uncovered in dealings with certain authorities. Furthermore, any forced facial covering will expressly be made a punishable offence. The Federal Council referred its proposals forward for consultation at its meeting on 27 June 2018.