AMSTERDAM - The Report Islamophobia Foundation (Stichting Meld Islamofobie) has called on parliament to reconsider the law banning face coverings on public transport and in buildings including schools and hospitals.

Between 200 and 400 women in the Netherlands are estimated to wear a burka or niqab that cover the face.

Since August 1 last year they face being fined €150 if they breach the ban. It does not apply to garments such as the hijab or chador that cover the hair but leave the face exposed.

‘Muslim women with and without face veils say they have been the target of islamophobia more frequently since the law was introduced,’ the organisation wrote in its annual report.

‘They are mostly targeted in places where the law does not apply such as shops and playgrounds and the police are not always properly informed about what the law says, meaning Muslim women do not have confidence in them.’