Greece is exploring a possible ban on burqas in schools and public spaces, joining a growing number of European countries that have restricted full-face coverings.
Migration and Asylum Minister Thanos Plevris told Ta Nea he is “positively inclined” toward a ban, arguing the burqa “clearly offends women’s and human dignity.”
Officials say discussions are at an early stage, with schools, where minors are involved, among the settings under consideration. Public services and transport are also being examined for potential restrictions.
Any move will depend on a demonstrated need, as burqas are not widespread in Greece. Islamic headscarves are excluded, except in cases of coercion involving minors.
The government is reviewing Greece’s legal framework alongside European examples and European Court of Human Rights rulings, which allow member states to impose limits on face coverings in the interests of social coexistence or where minors are concerned.
The issue has been raised before, including last June at Greek universities.
Across Europe, France was the first to ban full-face coverings in public in 2011, followed by Belgium and Austria.
Denmark has extended its 2018 ban to consider schools and universities, Switzerland approved a nationwide ban via referendum, and Portugal enacted similar legislation at the end of 2025.
Source: Tovima.
