Dutch Cabinet proposes nationwide ban on face-covering at protests

BRUSSELS

The Netherlands' caretaker government on Friday finalized a draft bill introducing a nationwide ban on face-covering clothing during demonstrations, following a request from a parliamentary majority.

The proposal also includes a review of potential restrictions on the right to protest, such as introducing separate criminal offenses for damaging cultural heritage sites and blocking highways or railway tracks, broadcaster NOS reported.

"We have, in my view, too often seen demonstrations being misused for vandalism or violence against the police," caretaker Justice Minister Foort van Oosten argued, adding that law-abiding demonstrators should not feel discouraged from participating in protests.

Van Oosten also said riot police have been authorized to assess whether additional equipment or armament is necessary.

Under the proposed legislation, violating the ban on face-covering clothing could result in a prison sentence of up to two months or a fine of up to €5,150 ($6,038).

Exceptions would remain for demonstrators who have valid reasons to conceal their identity, such as protesters at embassies who could face reprisals against themselves or their families in their country of origin.

The proposed amendment to the Public Assemblies Act will now be submitted for consultation to the police, the Public Prosecution Service, the judiciary, lawyers’ associations, and the Netherlands Institute for Human Rights. Members of the public will also be able to submit feedback in the coming weeks via the government’s online consultation platform.