Ganzgesichtsschleier

Ganzgesichtsschleier is a German-language term for a full-face veil that covers the face in public, making facial features largely unrecognizable. In practice, it refers to veils such as the niqab or burka, which obscure the face almost entirely, sometimes with a mesh or grille over the eyes.

These garments are worn by some Muslim women for reasons of modesty, religious interpretation, or cultural tradition. The practice is not universal among Muslims, and individual choices vary widely across regions and communities. The term Ganzgesichtsschleier is used in discussions about dress codes, rights, and integration in public life.

Legal status varies by country and, in some places, by region. Several European states have enacted restrictions or bans on wearing full-face coverings in public spaces, often citing security, secularism, or integration concerns. Notable examples include France, which banned face coverings in public spaces in 2010, with similar restrictions adopted in other countries. In Germany there is no nationwide prohibition; restrictions may apply in schools, public service, or specific institutions, depending on state law and context, and the topic remains debated.

Security and public-safety considerations are frequently cited in policy debates, since full-face veils can hinder identification in interactions with authorities or at checkpoints. Proponents emphasize freedom of dress and religious expression, while opponents point to potential conflicts with gender equality, secular values, or social cohesion.