Encyclopedia of Opinion
Question
Should burkas be banned in the UK?
Position3 of 3

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.

Supporting arguments · 6

  1. Burka bans are a hinderance to integration
    Banning the burka would create a barrier to cultural integration.
  2. A burka ban is excessive relative to its object
    The burka is worn by less than 1% of Muslim women. A blanket ban is not a proportional response in relation to the object.
  3. Banning the burka would prevent cultural dialogue
    Adopting a legislative approach to increasing gender equality through banning the burka will stymie constructive dialogue.
  4. Banning the burka would be discriminatory
    Article 14 of the European Convention on Human Rights prohibits discriminatory laws on religious grounds.
  5. We should not create an anti-Muslim environment by banning burkas
    Burka bans have a direct correlation with anti-Muslim violence.
  6. Personal liberty should be prioritised over banning burkas
    A burka ban would infringe Muslim women's rights to religious freedom and civil liberties.