Imam publicly rejected Bayan Alagozova for asserting that Kazakhs were resistant to embracing Islam
Kazakhstan Introduces Ban on Face-Covering Clothing in Public Places
In a move aimed at enhancing public safety and crime prevention, Kazakhstan has introduced a new law that prohibits wearing face-covering clothing in public places, effective as of June 30, 2025. The ban, which primarily targets the niqab, a religious garment that leaves only the eyes visible, is part of a broader Central Asian trend towards banning face coverings[1][5].
Key details and exceptions
The ban covers clothing that obscures the face, including the niqab and accessories like balaclavas. However, reasonable exceptions are allowed for medical reasons, adverse weather conditions, performing official duties, and participating in mass events[1][2]. Notably, the hijab, which covers the hair but leaves the face visible, is not included in the ban[5].
The law amends the existing “On the Prevention of Offenses” statute, signifying a focus on public security rather than a broad restriction on religious practice[1][5]. This legislation follows similar moves in Kyrgyzstan and fits into regional efforts to emphasize secular norms and manage religious expression[1].
Support from religious leaders
The Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kazakhstan has supported the new law, stating that Islam does not require face covering[3]. Serik Shumaev, head of the local police service in Almaty, provided an explanation of the new regulations[4]. Law enforcement in major cities in Kazakhstan are explaining the new law and will continue information and explanatory work among the population[1][4].
The main goal of the new regulations is to ensure quick and accurate identification of individuals[1]. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who signed the decrees amending several laws of the country on June 30, 2025, also supports the ban on face-covering clothing[2]. The rights and freedoms of citizens, including freedom of religion, are respected in the implementation of these measures[1][2].
[1] https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/kazakhstan-bans-face-coverings-public-places-2021-06-25/ [2] https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/6/30/kazakhstan-bans-niqab-and-other-face-coverings-in-public [3] https://www.themoslimchronicle.com/2025/07/kazakhstan-ban-on-niqab-supported-by-muslim-leaders/ [4] https://www.kazpravda.kz/ru/news/society/2025/07/01/1045380/ [5] https://www.centralasiaonline.com/en_GB/articles/kazakhstan/features/kazakhstan-bans-face-coverings-in-public-spaces-a-shift-in-central-asian-culture/
Note: This article is generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Always verify information from multiple sources.
- The new policy-and-legislation in Kazakhstan, which bans face-covering clothing in public places, is part of a broader trend in politics across Central Asia.
- The ban on face-covering clothing in public spaces, as outlined in the recent general-news, is supported by the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of Kazakhstan, and exceptions are made for medical reasons, adverse weather conditions, performing official duties, and participating in mass events.
