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In reply to the discussion: Angela Merkel calls for widespread ban on full veil Islamic coverings [View all]arithia
(455 posts)particularly in areas where regimes crack down on free speech or counter culture ideas. Being able to hide one's identity can protect you from retaliation. Ask anyone in Anonymous about the necessity of masks when protesting Scientology for examples of how this applies in a society with protected free speech- there will *always* be nutjobs who try to hurt and stalk you for daring to express an opinion they do not like.
This is why anonymous free speech is important to protect- it encourages the free exchange of ideas and information. Yes, there are people who abuse the privilege, but that happens within any social system. Rules that punish abusers are fine. Widespread bans on cultural garments (that are mostly worn by women) are less a security issue and more an expression of xenophobia and paternalistic liberalism.