An Azerbaijan government amendment approved last month has effectively restricted the hijab in schools without an explicit ban. The change to the Descriptions of Uniforms for Students of State General Education Institutions bars clothing that violates the “principle of secularism.” The state-run Azerbaijani Press Agency said the rules aim to create a unified dress code reflecting the country’s secular character while allowing traditional attire for approved celebrations.
About 96 per cent of Azerbaijan’s population identifies as Muslim. The constitution defines the nation as secular yet guarantees religious freedom. Officials argue the policy upholds professional standards for teachers and protects schools’ public reputation.
Enforcement began quickly. Some schools turned away students and staff wearing the headscarf. Teacher Zahra Hasanova told Al Jazeera she was informed she could no longer wear the hijab at school. “To be honest, I am a little emotional. I am hurt,” she said. “It is a personal choice, and if one day I want to take it off, that should be my choice too.”
Videos circulated of students hugging teachers and crying as they were barred from class. Local reports confirmed boycotts at at least two schools. Imprisoned journalist Polad Aslanov, serving a 16-year sentence for high treason, launched a hunger strike, calling the rules a violation of constitutional rights. Claims of internet blackouts remain unconfirmed by monitoring groups.
Protests and a social media campaign spread beyond Azerbaijan. Demonstrators gathered outside the Azerbaijani consulate in Istanbul, drawing parallels with Turkey’s 1997 restrictions on headscarves. President Ilham Aliyev issued a veiled warning against external interference in Azerbaijan’s lifestyle.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan later noted rising discrimination against Muslim women in his UN address, though Ankara issued no direct response.
The episode highlights ongoing tensions between secular state policy and religious expression in a predominantly Muslim society.
