Dutch police officers must not show any religious symbols. Their uniform ought to be completely neutral, the Dutch Justice Minister says. Therefore, she has introduced a ban on headscarves and other religious clothing for the police force.
The so-called clothing regulations will now mention “religious neutrality” explicitly. “This rule gives clarity about the neutrality of the uniform, Minister Yesilgöz says to De Telegraaf.
The new clothing rules are not only about headscarves but also apply to crosses and kippahs, for example, Yesilgöz clarifies. In case of doubt, the police have the authority to decide about individual incidents.
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The Minister took her decision after the Dutch Parliament asked her for clarity about the neutrality of the police uniform, she explains. “The term 'uniform' already says it: it must always be the same for an officer on the street.”
And neutrality is essential for these officers, the Minister stresses. “Because they represent the government and have a mandate to use violence if necessary.”
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There have been many debates on religious symbolism within the police force. Some political parties are firmly in favour of allowing headscarves, and some voices share that opinion within the police force, too, De Telegraaf writes.
However, Yesilgöz has always expressed her opposition. “Some say that a ban is a form of discrimination”, she says. “But that does not cover the real issue: neutrality.” She stresses that the police is an inclusive organisation but that neutrality is one of its key points. People who want to wear a headscarf are still welcome to apply for a job with the police, Yesilgöz points out. However, they will get a non-public function. “In contact with citizens, you have to look neutral so that everyone will see the same when meeting an officer in uniform.”
