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Azerbaijan Faces Protests and Arrests Over State School Hijab Restrictions
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News18•17-10-2026, 16:00
Azerbaijan Faces Protests and Arrests Over State School Hijab Restrictions
- •Azerbaijan's Cabinet of Ministers amended state school uniform rules, leading to reports of students and teachers wearing the hijab being turned away from classes.
- •Protesters and Muslim families argue that students should not be forced to choose between their religious faith and education.
- •The controversy has triggered student boycotts, social media campaigns, and demonstrations, resulting in the detention of 37 people by the Interior Ministry.
- •The current debate revives tensions from 2010 to 2012 over headscarf restrictions, balancing Azerbaijan's secular political system with freedom of conscience.
Key Questions Answered
Azerbaijan's Cabinet of Ministers amended state school uniform rules, which led some schools to turn away female students and teachers wearing hijabs. This sparked protests, student boycotts, and demonstrations by families who argue students should not choose between faith and education.
Azerbaijan's Cabinet of Ministers amended the rules governing state school uniforms on September 21, 2026.
Azerbaijan's Interior Ministry announced the detention of 37 people on October 12, citing non-compliance with rules and attempts to disrupt public order.
