Thursday, October 15, 2026 -Girls wearing hijabs are reportedly being denied entry to schools in Azerbaijan, sparking protests by students and parents over religious freedom and access to education. The controversy intensified after new school uniform regulations introduced in September prohibited clothing considered inconsistent with secular education.
Although the rules do not explicitly name the hijab, some schools have reportedly enforced them against students wearing Islamic headscarves. The growing dispute is putting the rights of Muslim girls and their ability to attend classes at the centre of a national debate.
The situation has triggered boycotts and demonstrations, with some students refusing to attend lessons in solidarity with affected classmates. Azerbaijan’s Interior Ministry said 37 people were detained on October 12 in connection with incidents surrounding the enforcement of the rules.
Authorities maintain that the regulations are intended to protect secular education and maintain uniform standards, while critics argue that preventing girls from entering classrooms risks violating their religious freedom and right to education. The disagreement is now drawing wider attention, including criticism from figures in neighbouring Türkiye.
The government faces mounting pressure to clarify how the regulations should be applied and ensure that students are not denied an education amid the dispute. Schools must provide clear guidance, while authorities should address parents’ concerns through transparent dialogue and lawful procedures.
As protests continue, the central question remains whether Azerbaijan can uphold its secular education system without unnecessarily restricting students’ religious expression. The outcome could have significant implications for families, teachers and the future of religious freedom in the country.
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