Azerbaijan's hijab ban sparks backlash from educators, students and Turkey

Azerbaijan has intensified restrictions on hijab-wearing in educational institutions, prompting widespread concern among educators and pupils who fear the consequences of non-compliance. Teachers report anxiety over potential dismissals, while students worry about being barred from attending classes for refusing to remove headscarves, creating tension across the country's school system.

The policy represents a significant move by Baku's secular authorities to enforce strict dress codes in state educational facilities. Officials have cited concerns about maintaining secular principles in schools, though the implementation has raised questions about religious freedom and educational access for Muslim students and their families.

The hijab restrictions have drawn scrutiny from Turkey, a close geopolitical ally of Azerbaijan. Turkish officials have expressed concern about the enforcement measures, signaling diplomatic pressure on a traditionally allied government over the handling of religious expression in schools.

Educators and parents have voiced concerns that the regulations lack clarity and may disproportionately affect religious minorities. The lack of explicit exemptions or accommodations has left schools grappling with how to apply the restrictions while maintaining enrollment and staff stability.

The row reflects broader tensions between secular governance frameworks and religious practice in the South Caucasus region, with international observers monitoring how Azerbaijan balances its secular policies against potential backlash from both its population and regional partners.