At a Glance

• New school uniform rules in Azerbaijan have sparked protests over the wearing of hijabs in classrooms.
• Students and parents say some schools have prevented headscarf-wearing students from attending lessons.
• Authorities say 37 people were arrested in Baku over alleged public order violations linked to enforcement of the rules.
• The regulations cite secular education and uniformity but do not explicitly name the hijab.

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Azerbaijan’s revised school uniform rules have triggered protests after some schools reportedly barred students wearing hijabs from attending classes, raising concerns about access to education and religious expression in the predominantly Muslim country.

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Key Statements and Focus Area

• Government Rationale: The regulations prohibit clothing that conflicts with school uniform requirements or the secular principle of general education. — Azerbaijani Cabinet of Ministers
• Arrests: The Interior Ministry says 37 people were arrested over alleged public order violations and interference with school operations. — Azerbaijani Ministry of Internal Affairs
• Focus Area: The dispute over religious headscarves in schools and the enforcement of Azerbaijan’s uniform regulations.

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The controversy follows amendments adopted by Azerbaijan’s Cabinet of Ministers on September 21. The regulations do not explicitly mention the hijab. However, reports from schools indicate that some headscarf-wearing students have been denied entry to classrooms, while some teachers have also reportedly faced restrictions.

Protests have taken place outside schools in Baku and other areas, according to reports. Videos shared on social media show students and teachers gathering outside school buildings, while some students have reportedly refused to attend lessons in solidarity with classmates who wear headscarves.

The ministry alleged that some individuals damaged educational facilities, disrupted public order, and attempted to obstruct traffic and normal school operations. A criminal case was opened in connection with the incidents.

The government’s state news agency, APA, said national clothing reflecting Azerbaijan’s history, culture, and national values may be worn during relevant events with approval from a school’s pedagogical council. The government has presented the uniform rules as a measure to uphold secular education and consistency in school attire.

FYI

Azerbaijan’s constitution defines the country as a secular state while guaranteeing freedom of religion. Approximately 96% of the population identifies as Muslim, according to reporting by Al Jazeera. The current dispute centers on how school uniform rules are being applied and whether their enforcement restricts students’ ability to attend classes while wearing religious head coverings.

The education authorities announced monitoring of school clothing requirements beginning October 9. Under the revised rules, school administrations oversee compliance, while pedagogical councils address questions related to students’ uniforms.