This is the recommendation made by the Litigation Chamber of the Flemish Institute for Human Rights, following a complaint lodged in March by a woman concerning the ban on covering bathing suits for women, whereas this is permitted for children.

The latter was prevented from entering the provincial recreation area of Puyenbroeck (northern Belgium) because she was wearing a full-body swimsuit, which is permitted for children, to protect them from UV rays.

The Flemish Institute for Human Rights agreed with the complainant that the pool rules in question were discriminatory, adding that the province’s arguments on hygiene and safety were irrelevant. The institute concludes by recommending that the province authorize covering swimsuits for adults too.

Although the institute’s opinion is advisory, the province of East Flanders said it had taken note of the decision and would “examine it in depth”.