Kazakhstan imposes ban on burqa, niqab in public

Kazakhstan, a country with a Muslim-majority population, has enacted a law prohibiting the wearing of burqas and niqabs in public. The legislation is now awaiting approval from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev before it can be implemented.

While around 70% of Kazakhstan's population follows Islam, the government argues that the ban is essential for public safety and preserving the secular nature of the state. Officials contend that face coverings make it challenging to identify individuals, potentially complicating law enforcement and security measures.

The law does have certain exceptions, including for medical reasons, extreme cold weather, work-related needs, cultural events, or emergency services, where wearing face coverings will still be allowed.

Previously, Kazakhstan has imposed restrictions on religious attire. In 2017, the country banned schoolgirls from wearing the hijab. In 2023, the same rule was extended to teachers.

President Tokayev, who is himself a Muslim, believes that religion should not influence state governance. He has expressed that the niqab is a garment imposed by extremists and does not align with Kazakh culture.

This move follows similar actions in other Central Asian Muslim countries such as Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, where similar bans have been enforced. These actions are believed to be part of efforts to curb religious extremism in the region.