Tajikistan bans Hijab, public Eid celebrations; Labels it as foreign culture

New Delhi: In a contentious session held on June 19, Tajikistan's National Assembly approved amendments to the "Law on the regulation of holidays and celebrations," introducing 38 new provisions. Among these changes are strict prohibitions on "the import, sale, promotion, and wearing of foreign clothing deemed detrimental to national culture," alongside measures targeting child pornography. Tajikistan, a Muslim-majority country, has banned the Hijab and public Eid celebrations, declaring them foreign culture. 
 

🇹🇯Tajikistan, a 96% Muslim country, BANS women from wearing the Hijab.

Children will also be banned from taking part in Islamic Eid activities, under a new law.

The Tajik parliament’s upper house has approved a bill banning “alien garments”
that will formally prohibit… pic.twitter.com/28QOg6TMpv

— Oli London (@OliLondonTV) June 20, 2024

Foreign clothing 

Details from the session were limited as independent journalists were unable to obtain access. Criticism had surfaced prior to the assembly's decision, with residents and clergy both domestically and internationally calling for revisions to the amendments targeting so-called "foreign" attire. National Assembly Speaker Navruz Kurbanzoda defended the legislative process, affirming their adherence to proper procedures in an interview with Radio Ozodi on Wednesday.

Ensure their upbringing, safety during Islamic observances

Earlier support for the amendments came on May 8 from deputies of the Majlisi Namoyandagon of Tajikistan. Suleiman Davlatzoda, head of the Religion Committee, cited concerns over children's holidays, emphasizing the need to ensure their upbringing and safety during significant Islamic observances like Ramadan and Eid al-Adha.

Criticized the use of foreign labels and hijabs

The proposal to restrict "foreign" clothing, primarily understood to affect Islamic attire, gained momentum following discussions between Tajikistan's President and religious leaders. President Emomali Rahmon highlighted societal concerns about xenophobia in clothing, particularly criticizing the use of foreign labels and hijabs, earlier this year on March 9. Children will also be banned from taking part in Islamic Eid activities, under a new law. 

Sparked international condemnation 

The amendments have sparked international condemnation, including from the Union of Islamic Scholars, and prompted calls for "jihad" by some clerics in neighboring Afghanistan. In response, numerous religious figures, officials, university professors, and bloggers within Tajikistan have voiced their opinions on the matter.

Will be effective soon 

Pending the President's signature and official publication, these amendments will soon take effect. The "Law on the regulation of holidays and celebrations" was originally enacted in 2007, with government proponents touting it as a unique "national law" without parallel elsewhere. Critics argue the law infringes upon personal liberties, impacting aspects ranging from personal attire to familial traditions.

Fines up to $740

Individuals refusing to follow the new law face fines of up to $740, while legal entities may be fined up to $5,400. Government officials and religious authorities could incur even higher fines of up to $5,060 if found guilty of violating the “traditions and celebrations” law.