Australian Senator’s Burqa Stunt in Parliament Reignites National Ban Debate

A far-right Australian senator has provoked outrage by wearing a burqa in the national parliament. Pauline Hanson staged the protest on Monday to demand a ban on the Islamic garment. The political stunt caused immediate chaos and accusations of racism.

This was the second time Senator Hanson has used this tactic to push for a ban on face coverings in public. Her actions have intensified a long-running and divisive national conversation about security, religion, and cultural identity.

Parliamentary Session Disrupted by Political Protest

Senator Hanson entered the Senate chamber wearing the full-body covering. This occurred shortly after she was blocked from introducing a bill to outlaw burqas. According to Reuters, proceedings were temporarily suspended after she refused to remove the garment.

The scene caused an immediate uproar among other politicians. Muslim senators condemned the act as a blatant display of racism. They described the stunt as disgraceful and offensive to the Australian Muslim community.

Senator Hanson Defends Her Controversial Actions

In a statement posted on Facebook, Hanson defended her protest. She said she was displaying the “oppressive” garment to show Australians what was at stake. She directly challenged her colleagues, stating, “If they don’t want me wearing it, ban the burqa.”

Her party, One Nation, has long campaigned against Islamic clothing. According to Associated Press, Hanson first wore a burqa in Parliament in 2017. Her party recently gained two additional Senate seats, reflecting growing support for its anti-immigration platform.

The incident has sharply divided political opinion, ensuring the burqa ban debate will remain a central and contentious issue in Australian politics for the foreseeable future.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is Pauline Hanson?

Pauline Hanson is an Australian far-right politician and leader of the One Nation party. She first rose to prominence in the 1990s for her strong opposition to Asian immigration and asylum seekers.

What was the reaction in Parliament?

The reaction was swift and critical. Muslim senators labeled the act racist and disgraceful. The session was suspended due to the disruption caused by her refusal to remove the garment.

Has this happened before?

Yes, this is the second time Senator Hanson has worn a burqa in Parliament. She performed a similar stunt in 2017 to advocate for a nationwide ban on the garment.

What is the goal of the protest?

The goal is to push for legislation that would ban burqas and other face-covering attire in public places. Hanson argues it is a matter of national security and women’s rights.

Does Australia have a burqa ban?

Australia does not have a nationwide burqa ban. The issue is periodically debated, often sparked by political stunts like this one, but no federal law has been passed.