In a bold move, Tajikistan, a predominantly Muslim nation, recently passed a law banning the hijab, sparking heated debates and concerns. President Emomali Rahmon’s government claims the ban is necessary to preserve cultural values and combat extremism.
The law, targeting “foreign clothing” like the hijab, comes as part of a series of 35 religion-related acts aimed at reducing external influences in the country. The penalties for violating this ban are severe, ranging from fines of nearly EUR 700 for citizens to about EUR 5,000 for religious figures.
President Rahmon’s crackdown on religious influence dates back to the aftermath of a brutal civil war in 1997. His recent actions, including banning hijabs in public institutions and closing mosques, reflect a broader effort to assert control and combat what he sees as extremist elements.
International reactions to the ban have been mixed, with some likening it to similar actions taken in countries like France, Austria, and Tunisia. While supporters argue for the ban’s necessity in combatting extremism, critics fear it may infringe on personal freedoms and religious rights, potentially leading to further unrest in the region.