Beni Mellal – Tajikistan has officially banned the wearing of hijabs and other “alien garments,” imposing hefty fines in a move to curb Islamic influence. The bill was passed by the upper house of parliament, Majlisi Milli, on June 19, following years of unofficial restrictions on the hijab in the Muslim-majority country.
Under the new law, individuals wearing hijabs or other banned religious clothing face fines of up to 7,920 somonis (approximately $700). Companies allowing employees to wear prohibited garments risk penalties of 39,500 somonis ($3,500). Government officials and religious leaders face even steeper fines of 54,000-57,600 somonis ($4,800-$5,100) for violations.
The bill also restricts children’s participation in Islamic holiday traditions such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, with government officials claiming the measures ensure “proper education and safety” of children.
In recent years, Tajikistan has seen an increase in Islamic clothing from the Middle East, which authorities view as linked to extremism and a threat to the country’s cultural identity. President Emomali Rahmon referred to the hijab as “foreign clothing” in a March address, promoting traditional Tajik national dress as an alternative.
This law escalates Tajikistan’s unofficial restrictions on Islamic attire. Since 2007, the hijab has been banned for students, later extending to all public institutions. Authorities have also discouraged bushy beards in men, with reports of police forcibly shaving thousands of beards over the past decade.
Human rights organizations have condemned the hijab ban as a violation of religious freedom. With over 98% of the population being Muslim, the law is likely to face significant opposition within Tajik society as it goes into effect.
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