The restrictions, introduced last month, do not explicitly name the hijab but prohibit pupils from wearing clothes that violate the principle of secularism in education. The policy has ignited controversy in Azerbaijan, a country where more than 90 percent of the population is Muslim.
Gulshan Aliyeva told Al Jazeera she intends to continue reporting to work and will take her case to authorities if necessary, arguing that Azerbaijan’s Labour Code, Article 16, prohibits employment discrimination. “I want to fulfil my responsibilities, educate students and continue my career without my religious beliefs becoming an obstacle to my employment,” she said.
Protests have erupted in response, with the Ministry of Internal Affairs reporting 37 detentions for disrupting public order while breaking the new rules. The Baku City Education Department announced that schools will be monitored to assess compliance.
Sheikh-ul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazade, chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Board (CMB), described the hijab as “an important religious obligation.” He said people “cannot oppose the decisions of the state” but can express their “views as citizens,” while criticising protesters for disturbing schools and urging critics to address relevant ministers.
Not all Azerbaijanis view the restrictions as an infringement of rights. Baku resident Timur Rzayev said the controversy has been politicised and that the government’s uniform policy should be followed “rather than debated.” He opposes girls under 18 wearing the hijab, arguing such decisions often reflect parental preferences. “We are a secular state that respects the rights of religious people,” he said.
The row evokes the Soviet era, when the state restricted religious practices and did not allow people to freely observe traditions. After independence, these restrictions were eased, making the current move a significant shift.