Summary
In a controversial debate held by the Spanish parliament, a bill proposed by far-right party Vox to ban the burqa and niqab in public spaces did not pass. Archbishop Joan Planellas of Tarragona criticized the proposal, stating that it would discriminate against women while also calling for mutual respect among religious groups. The archbishop, who is president of the Conferencia Episcopal Tarraconense (Catalonian regional bishops’ assembly), emphasized the importance of respecting other religions and beliefs as long as they do not discriminate against women. Despite support from the conservative People’s Party (PP) and initial backing from Junts per Catalunya, Vox’s proposal was ultimately rejected due to opposition from right-wing groups in Spain. The bill would have imposed fines or imprisonment for individuals found wearing a burqa or niqab in public spaces, and those who forced someone else to do so faced possible eviction.
Key Topics
Vox party, Burqa ban, Catholic Church leadership
