- Question
Should burkas be banned in the UK?
Boris Johnson MP recently divided opinion for controversial remarks about Muslim women who wear burkas/burqas. Though he did not advocate a ban, his comments have reignited the debate following bans on the full-face-and-body coverings becoming law in countries including France, Belgium, and Denmark. Should similar prohibitions should be introduced in the UK? This question operates on the basis that women are making a free choice when wearing burkas, and are not forced to be doing so - something which all parties would reject.
Burkas should be banned in the UK
This position holds that burkas should be banned in the UK. Its arguments contend the garment normalises the oppression of women, that newcomers should adapt to local customs, that Islam does not strictly require it, and that face coverings raise public-safety concerns.
Burkas should be banned in certain contexts
This position holds that burkas should be banned only in certain contexts. It argues that in a secular society they should be prohibited in government buildings and security-sensitive places—much as ski masks and helmets are already restricted in some locations.
Burkas should not be banned in the UK
This position holds that burkas should not be banned in the UK. It argues that a ban would infringe personal liberty, hinder rather than help integration, foster an anti-Muslim climate, and prove discriminatory and impractical to enforce — an excessive response to its object.
- Burka bans are a hinderance to integration
- A burka ban is excessive relative to its object
- Banning the burka would prevent cultural dialogue
- Banning the burka would be discriminatory
- We should not create an anti-Muslim environment by banning burkas
- Personal liberty should be prioritised over banning burkas