Tajikistan’s upper house of parliament, the Majlisi Milli, has approved a contentious law banning the hijab and other traditional Islamic clothing. This decision, passed on June 19, follows the initial approval by the lower chamber, the Majlisi Namoyandagon, on May 8. The law, which targets “alien garments” and restricts children’s celebrations during major Islamic holidays such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, has sparked considerable debate among the predominantly Muslim population of this Central Asian nation.
Sulaiman Davlatzoda, the head of the Religion Committee, highlighted the rationale behind the restrictions on children’s festivities. As reported by Radio Liberty’s Tajik Service, Radio Ozodi, Davlatzoda stated that the ban aims to ensure the “proper education and safety” of children during Ramadan and Eid al-Adha.
The new legislation has not only incited discussions on religious freedom but also stirred concerns about its implications on cultural identity. According to the Majlisi Milli press centre, the session supported amendments related to holidays, cultural practices, the role of educators in children’s upbringing, and parental responsibilities.
Officials have expressed concern over the influx of Middle Eastern attire, associating it with Islamic extremism. This viewpoint is reflected in the stringent penalties outlined in the new law. Fines for individuals violating the dress code can reach up to 7,920 somonis, while companies may face penalties up to 39,500 somonis. Government officials and religious leaders found guilty of non-compliance could incur even steeper fines, up to 54,000 and 57,600 somonis respectively.
The hijab ban marks an escalation in the Tajik government’s long-standing campaign against Islamic attire. Since 2007, the Ministry of Education has prohibited Islamic and Western-style miniskirts in educational institutions. This informal ban gradually extended to public institutions, with some organisations mandating the removal of headscarves for employees and visitors. Enforcement teams conducted market raids to ensure compliance, despite official denials of women being fined on the streets for wearing hijabs.
To counter the influence of Islamic clothing, the government has actively promoted traditional Tajik attire. In 2017, millions of citizens received text messages encouraging women to don national clothes, underscoring the cultural significance of these outfits. This campaign culminated in 2018 with the publication of a 376-page manual, “The Guidebook Of Recommended Outfits In Tajikistan,” prescribing suitable attire for various occasions.
