Serial demonstrations, mass movements
Details
This is an expired event!
Event title
Azerbaijan - 37 People Detained in Azerbaijan During Protests Against Hijab Ban in Schools
Source
Severity
Low
Event date (UTC)
2026-10-13 10:28:33
Last update (UTC)
2026-10-13 10:28:33
Area range
Local event
Address/Affected area(s)
Bakı (Baku), Bakı Iqtisadi Rayonu
In Baku, 37 people were detained as a result of protests against new rules for standardized school uniforms. Local authorities reported that participants in the demonstration clashed with educational institution staff and attempted to disrupt the operation of schools and traffic.
Among the protesters, there were attempts of arson recorded. In the Garadagh district, the car of a school principal was set on fire, and in the Yasamal district, there was an attempt to set a school on fire. Fortunately, no one was injured in these incidents.
During the protests, users in Azerbaijan experienced disruptions in Instagram and TikTok, which added tension to the situation.
Criminal proceedings have been initiated against the organizers and participants of the protests under Article 233 of the Criminal Code of Azerbaijan, which pertains to actions that violate public order. This offense carries a penalty of up to three years of imprisonment.
The new rules for wearing school uniforms were approved by the Azerbaijani government on September 21. They prohibit students from attending classes in clothing that contradicts the principles of secular education and disrupts the unity of the uniform. Since October 6, these requirements have also begun to apply to teachers.
Starting October 12, schools began inspections to ensure compliance with the new norms. According to the APA agency, discussions were held with students who came in inappropriate clothing, involving doctors and psychologists. Parents were also invited for explanations.
The Azerbaijani authorities explain the ban on wearing religious clothing in educational institutions as a necessity to ensure equality among students. The unified school uniform, according to lawmakers, should eliminate social and religious differences among children.
According to a parliament member, the requirements for school uniforms should be viewed as a protection of a neutral educational space, where every student is regarded equally, regardless of their social status or religious affiliation.