The largest state in Germany has outlined plans to ban the full-face Islamic veil in public buildings because it is not in keeping with "Christian values".
Bavaria will ban the face covering, which only leaves a woman's eyes on show, in places like schools, universities and any government buildings like town halls.
"Concealing your face goes against [the] culture of communication," said interior minister Joachim Herrman.
He said Germany has a culture of "open communication with one another" because it was the "democratic understanding of Christian values".
The politician added: "Communication happens not only via language but also via looks, facial expressions and gestures.
"It forms the foundation for our interactions with each other is the basis of our free and democratic order.
"Concealing your face goes against this culture of communication."
Schools would be a focus of the proposals, the minister said, as he stressed that children "must be able to gauge the reaction" of adults.
The ban is expected to be approved in the state parliament by late Spring.
A Monthly Gift Of $11 Makes A World Of Difference
In a world of fake news there’s never been a greater need for quality Christian journalism. Premier’s mission is to provide the Church with the most up to date and relevant news, told from a Christian perspective. But we can’t do it without you.
Unlike many websites we haven't put up a paywall — we want to keep our journalism free at the point of need and as open as we can. Premier’s news output takes a lot of time, money and hard work to produce. No one in the USA is sharing news like we are across radio, magazines and online so please help us to continue that today.
For a monthly gift of $11 or more we’d also be able to send you a free copy of the brand new Premier Bible, a wonderful Anglicised version of the NLT packed with exclusive bonus content, reading plan and resources to help you get the most out of scripture.
Your monthly support will make a world of difference. Thank you.
Support Us
Article by Antony Bushfield
Antony Bushfield is a multimedia journalist for Premier.
