Portugal’s Face-Covering Ban: Impacts and London’s Measured Response

In July 2026 the Portuguese Parliament approved legislation prohibiting the full concealment of the face in public spaces. The measure, widely known as the “burqa law”, was driven by the Chega party and secured the support of the centre-right PSD, the Liberal Initiative and the CDS-PP. Left-wing parties voted against it. The final text emphasises security and public order rather than religion, imposes fines ranging from €150 to €3,000, and still awaits presidential promulgation.

Kaue Santos · 08 August 2026