The Paradox of Azerbaijan's Secularism and the Hijab Ban Controversy
OC Media reported on the detention of several citizens following protests in Nardaran, Baku, over the policy banning headscarves in Azerbaijan's public schools. The new rule, which took effect in September 2026, prohibits clothing deemed inconsistent with secular principles in public education. Although it doesn’t explicitly mention the hijab, in practice some veiled teachers were dismissed and hijab-wearing female students were barred from attending classes.
The protests started with a video showing refusal in Jalilabad and spread to Baku and surrounding areas. This issue once sparked waves of demonstrations between 2010 and 2012 and remains sensitive, especially among those who see the hijab as part of their beliefs. The involvement of students this time around raises broader questions about access to education and the enforcement of secular rules in a country where 96% of the population is Muslim.
The ban triggered diplomatic responses, including talks between Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev. Several Turkish officials expressed regret over the regulation, while the Indonesian Ulema Council urged its repeal to respect religious rights. On the other hand, a large-scale hacking on October 14 was suspected to be linked to this issue.
This situation has sparked debate about the paradox of secularism: the state claims neutrality, yet restricts its citizens' religious expression. Observers note a double standard when the hijab ban in Azerbaijan draws little condemnation, while campaigns for sharia-compliant dress in Iran are deemed violations of women's rights.
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