Spain’s Congress of Deputies on Tuesday, February 17th narrowly rejected a proposal to ban the burqa and niqab in public spaces, despite growing support from the country’s centre-right opposition.
The bill, introduced by VOX—a nationalist and conservative party founded in 2013—was defeated by 177 votes to 170.
The initiative was backed by Spain’s main conservative force, the Popular Party (PP), marking a notable shift in its approach. Party leader Alberto Núñez Feijóo described the defense of women’s dignity in relation to the burka as an “attractive” idea put forward by VOX.
VOX argued that full-face veils erase women’s personal identity and can function as tools of submission, while also posing security risks. The proposal sought financial penalties and prison sentences for those who coerce women into wearing them, and possible expulsion for foreigners who commit very serious offenses. The measure would not affect the hijab, which covers the hair but leaves the face visible.
Only the PP and the Union of the Navarre People supported the bill. The governing Socialists and their partners, including Junts and Sumar, voted it down, while Coalición Canaria abstained. From the PSOE, lawmakers accused VOX of hostility and fear-mongering, arguing that bans do not liberate women but risk further marginalization.
Party leader Santiago Abascal posted on X, formerly Twitter:
This women’s prison was defended yesterday in Congress by the PSOE and other left-wing parties, in collaboration with the juntas that already encircle the Islamic Republic of Catalonia. They are all being given the word ‘feminism’ to talk about.
Supporters countered that Europe has already set precedents. Countries such as Belgium, Denmark, and France restrict full-face coverings, citing security concerns and gender equality.
