Swiss look set to approve ban on facial coverings in tight referendum

[Klaralven]

ZURICH (Reuters) - Swiss voters were projected to approve by a slim majority a far-right proposal to ban facial coverings in a binding referendum on Sunday viewed as a test of attitudes toward Muslims.

Projections for broadcaster SRF, based on partial results, showed the measure passing 51% to 49%, with a two-point margin for error.

The proposal under the Swiss system of direct democracy does not mention Islam directly and also aims to stop violent street protesters from wearing masks, yet local politicians, media and campaigners have dubbed it the burqa ban.

Opinion polls had suggested that the measure, which the government has said went too far, could pass and the ban would become law.

“In Switzerland, our tradition is that you show your face. That is a sign of our basic freedoms,” Walter Wobmann, chairman of the referendum committee and a member of parliament for the Swiss People’s Party, had said before the vote.

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-swiss-burqaban/swiss-look-set-to-approve-ban-on-facial-coverings-in-tight-referendum-idUSKBN2AZ07N

[dawg day]

1. What about Covid?

This doesn't seem like the best time to force people to expose their mouths.

[KentuckyWoman]

2. Switzerland is cold in the winter and people ski.

Switzerland's tradition is to not get frostbite and Walter Wobmann is either lying or an idiot.