The administration of the Belgian city of Charleroi has introduced a ban on the wearing of both Muslim veils and Christian crosses in local schools, national media said on Tuesday.
The ban applies to both primary and comprehensive school pupils.
In April, the lower chamber of the Belgian parliament approved a bill prohibiting women from wearing full-face Islamic garments, such as the burqa or niqab, in streets, parks, sports grounds and buildings "meant for public use or to provide services."
The ban was imposed on the grounds that the wearer of the veil is not fully identifiable and therefore could be a threat to public security. Supporters of the law believe that the new law will be of use in the fight against terrorism and also give more rights to Muslim women.
The offender will face a fine of 15-25 euro ($28-$47) and possibly a prison term of up to seven days.
BRUSSELS, July 13 (RIA Novosti)
