Some schools in Azerbaijan have begun turning away hijab-wearing students and teachers following changes to school clothing regulations, triggering protests and classroom boycotts.
The amendment, approved last month, does not explicitly ban the Muslim headscarf. Instead, it prohibits clothing that authorities say conflicts with the country’s “principle of secularism.”
The government says the changes aim to establish a unified dress code in state schools. Azerbaijan’s constitution defines the country as secular while also guaranteeing religious freedom.
Teacher Zahra Hasanova said she was told she could no longer wear her hijab at school. She described the restriction as hurtful, arguing that wearing or removing the headscarf should remain her personal choice.
Videos circulating on social media showed students crying and embracing teachers who had been turned away. Local reports said students at at least two schools boycotted classes over the restrictions.
The backlash has also spread to Turkiye, where demonstrators gathered outside Azerbaijan’s consulate in Istanbul and urged authorities to reconsider the decision.
President Ilham Aliyev subsequently warned against interference in Azerbaijan’s way of life during a party congress speech, without directly naming Turkiye.
The restrictions have raised concerns about access to education and employment for women and girls who choose to wear the hijab.
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