Tajikistan Officials Consider Islamic Hijab as 'Alien' and 'Dangerous'

The Islamic hijab worn by women in Tajikistan has long been a controversial issue in the country. According to Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Tajik officials have referred to this garment as 'alien' and 'dangerous.' They intend to curb the spread of Islamic dress among Tajik women. Based on a bill on national ceremonies and rituals that has been approved by the country's House of Representatives, wearing the Islamic hijab is considered a disregard for civic duties and a violation of the national values and symbols of the country. One clause of this bill, which was passed on the first day of September, states: 'People should be aware that the clothing they wear can cause harm to society.' This bill is expected to be approved by the Tajik Senate and sent for signature to President Emomali Rahmon. Halalbi Qurban-zoda, head of the Social Affairs Committee of the Tajik Parliament, told Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 'This law supports the government's program. Officials have called this program a promotion of Tajik culture, clothing, and traditions.' Entering government offices and public places in Tajikistan with Islamic dress is prohibited. Government officials describe the new law as a step in the fight against what they call Islamic extremism, but opponents of the law believe that the new legislation contradicts fundamental individual rights. The U.S. Department of State has also recently criticized the state of religious freedoms in Tajikistan, noting in its report the abuses faced by hijab-wearing women this year, stating that they have been harassed by government officials.