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"The Belgian parliament’s approval of a ban on the Islamic Burqa and Niquab, which partly or entirely covers a woman’s face and body, has sparked fierce comment." (euronews)

And this debate continues. Belgium's lower house of parliament voted virtually unanimously in favor of a law aimed at banning burqas in public places. It moves now to the Senate, where it is expected to pass, but not before its wording is challenged.

EUobserver says the burqa ban is not the highest priority for Belgium politicians.

"It is clearly easier to play childish games with civil liberties over a fictitious 'national security' issue... than it is to address the real problems facing the nation."

The country last week saw the collapse of its governing coalition. Because of this, Belgium will conduct early elections — possibly delaying the passage of the law as both houses of parliament must first approve the bill. France 24 says the Burqa issue is one of the only political matters being addressed within Belgium government chambers right now.

"Belgium has no government. The country is facing a deep political crisis. But one issue unites almost all of the political leaders. The ban of the full veil."

But according to EurActiv.com, the Senate action was not a huge step forward for the legislation.

"The Senate vote is considered a mere formality... and it is uncertain when the next parliament will be sworn in."

And Australia's The Herald Sun says the new parliament could restart the entire process.

"...legal experts are debating whether the whole package would have to pass through a new assembly."

Some sources say the challenges and elections may delay the laws approval by the upper house until June or July. If you want to learn more about the Belgium burqa ban and why politicians, citizens and human rights groups are debating the proposed law’s requirement, check out our transcript for links to other Newsy stories.

Belgian Parliament Passes Burqa Ban

France Nears Ban on Burqas