Burkas and niqabs banned in council buildings in two Malaga-area towns – Alhaurin el Grande & Rincon de la Victoria

In these two towns, in the province Malaga, full-face coverings like the burka or niqab have been banned in municipal offices and public places.

In a meeting held last week (February 20,26), the local councils of both municipalities approved this measure. The measure applies to all municipal responsibilities, such as town halls, administrative office, schools, libraries, police stations and courts, along with any other facility where residents interact or use public services.

According to the new rule individuals wearing a niqab or burka will not be allowed access to these buildings. This restriction was imposed to maintain security, ensure clear visual identification and normal council operations.

A “textile den”

In Rincon de la Victoria the decision was welcomed by one councillor The council has stated that “the textile dungeon” of burqas and niqabs will not be permitted in its facilities.

In Alhaurin el Grande, a council spokesperson explained It is argued that this will ensure the safety of all users, their correct identification and the normal operation of services by preventing the wearing of a burka in municipal buildings. He added, “We are making this motion for the safety and security of all Alhaurinos, and the officials who use these council premises.”

Local residents support the ban

There has been a marked increase in the use of these cultural face covers, particularly in Alhaurin el Grande. This has led to a local debate about this topic. Josefa, an Alhaurin el Grande businesswoman, commented after the meeting of the local council: “We are often expected to follow local cultural rules when we travel to other countries. ‘When in Rome’, and all that. It is only natural for those who visit our culture to follow our rules. You can’t just walk around in a bikini. The ban on burkas and niqabs is no different.

The implementation of these bylaws begins immediately after the approvals in plenary. In the decisions of the council, no additional enforcement mechanisms such as fines were described. Residents who want to use municipal services but are wearing full face coverings must remove them, or do their business in another way (by appointment or remotely if available).

The measures are only applicable to indoor council buildings. They do not affect streets, private property, or other public areas. In contrast, Malaga’s capital rejected a similar plan during this week’s plenary.