Pen Vows Referendum on Fines for Islamic Veiling of Women and Girls

Marine Le Pen’s National Rally says it would put France’s 2010 ban on Islamic veils in public to a referendum and attach fines to violations, if elected president. Speaking Monday, Le Pen said enforcement is currently rare and that a broader ballot would also seek public consent for a package aimed at “combating Islamist ideologies.” Her plan would include a vote on whether to abolish birthright citizenship, restrict welfare to French citizens, and order the “systematic expulsion” of foreign offenders and criminals. The move contrasts with her rival, Edouard Philippe, who urged respecting the existing law rather than going further.