Veil is part of shari’ah not a mere cultural practice.
Is it waajib (necessary)? There has been a difference of opinion on the necessity (waajib) of veil even among the sahaba.
Hanafi fiqh: Face is not part of satar (awrah / private part) but covering the face is necessary (waajib) for young women. In current times, there may be an excuse in places where is a real risk of being castigated. Women who do not wear veil in such circumstances should do so with a conscious awareness of deprivation rather than freedom.