# Kyrgyzstan, a Muslim-majority country, Bans the Niqab

> Kyrgyzstan recently banned the niqab, a face-covering garment, imposing a fine of 20,000 som ($230) for violations. The government cites security concerns, but critics argue it restricts personal freedom. The law exempt…

Published: 2025-02-06 · Desk: Latest · Source: Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

Kyrgyzstan recently became the latest country in Central Asia to ban the niqab, a face-covering garment worn by some Muslim women. The ban, effective from February 1, 2025, imposes a fine of 20,000 som ($230) on women who wear the niqab in public. The government justifies the law as a security measure, arguing that it is important for individuals to be identifiable in public spaces. However, critics argue that the ban infringes on personal freedom and choice. The law is part of an amendment to the Religious Sphere Act, signed by President Sadyr Japarov on January 21, and it prohibits clothing that obstructs identification in public places and government offices. Exemptions are made for face coverings worn for work or medical reasons.

The niqab ban has sparked controversy, as it is increasingly popular among conservative women in Kyrgyzstan, despite no historical tradition of wearing it in the country. The government maintains that the hijab, which covers the hair and neck but leaves the face visible, is not affected by the law. Kyrgyzstan is unique in Central Asia for allowing the hijab in schools and offices. However, neighboring countries like Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan have imposed similar bans on Islamic clothing, including the hijab. Central Asian governments justify these measures as necessary to protect national security and uphold traditional values, often at the expense of religious freedom.

Original reporting: https://www.rferl.org/a/niqab-ban-kyrgyzstan-islam-hijab-central-asia/33297197.html
HTML: https://tezzfeed.com/latest-news/kyrgyzstan-a-muslim-majority-country-bans-the-niqab-1738830407538
Bangladesh desk: https://tezzfeed.com/bangladeshi-news.md
Agent map: https://tezzfeed.com/llms.txt