Protests erupt in Baku over school hijab ban, with fires set and 37 arrested
Azerbaijani authorities arrested 37 people in Baku over protests against new school uniform rules, Minval reported, citing Azerbaijan’s Interior Ministry. According to Minval, protesters clashed with school staff and tried to disrupt school operations and traffic.
Protests erupted in Baku, Azerbaijan, over a ban on wearing hijabs in schools, according to Minval, who reported that 37 people were arrested. Protesters clashed with school staff and attempted to disrupt traffic and school operations, with some setting fires. In Baku's Garadagh district, a school director's car was burned, while in Yasamal, attempts were made to set fire to a school, though no injuries were reported.
The government approved new school uniform rules on September 21, prohibiting clothing that contradicts the secular nature of education and undermines the uniformity of the dress code. The ban extends to teachers' clothing as of October 6. Azerbaijani authorities justified the ban, stating that it ensures equality among students and prevents social and religious divisions.
School officials have been checking compliance since October 12, offering talks with students and parents regarding the new requirements.
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