I don't think Burqas are unique to Afghanistan: they are worn by some women in Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia... I believe that they are common in the Sunni-Wahabi tradition.
I certainly believe that they are an instrument of subjugation.
But...I agree with those upthread that commented that this is being presented as a pro-feminist issue, when it is actually a sop to those who are anti-immigrant/anti-muslim etcetera.
And it appears that with the current economic climate, racism and anti-immigrant sentiment is again on the rise in Europe.