Monday, January 16, 2006

Dutch Burqa Ban?


The Dutch government is deciding whether to ban full burqas (Islamic dress which covers the face apart from the eyes).  Sentiment in the Netherlands, a country that is having particularly violent problems with integrating or assimilating Muslims, seems to be that the burqa is a symbol of female oppression that is not compatable with a modern liberal society.  Yet "there are only about 50 women in all of the Netherlands who do cover up entirely" according to the government.  While I agree with Dutch sentiment, I cannot help wonder if a out right ban on the practice will needlessly fan the flames of Islamic exteremism. 

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