Law Enforcement Officers in Kazakhstan Mask Their Faces
In a move aimed at enhancing public security and promoting ethnic identity, Kazakhstan has introduced a new law that bans clothing in public places that covers the face and interferes with facial recognition. The law, signed by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev in July 2025, reflects a broader Central Asian trend of restricting certain Islamic dress styles that conceal the face.
The ban, effective from July 12, 2023, applies to any clothing that prevents facial recognition in public places. However, it allows for exceptions in cold weather, medical situations, work-related protective gear, and sports/cultural events. Niqabs are among the items of clothing prohibited under the new law, but religious clothing that does not cover the face, such as hijabs, sheilas, hijabs, al-amira, and others, are exceptions to the law and are allowed.
The purpose of the law is to ensure safety and order, allowing for quick identification of individuals. This is particularly important in public places where CCTV cameras are being used to monitor activities. The new rules are being enforced through these cameras in various public places in Kazakhstan.
The police are providing explanations to residents and visitors about the exceptions to the new law. They are holding meetings with residents and visiting shopping centers and markets to answer questions and clarify the rules. Balaclavas and masks that cover the face entirely are banned under the new law, but wearing a mask for medical reasons is permitted.
In cold weather, covering the face with a scarf or a shawl is allowed. The law also does not hinder the use of protective gear at work or on duty, including gas masks and respirators. The new rules are not intended to punish but to convey the exceptions to the people.
This legislation aligns with similar bans in neighboring Central Asian countries such as Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, where face-covering garments have also been restricted for cultural and security reasons. The law does not restrict the right to freedom of religion.
The police are working diligently to ensure that the new rules are understood and followed by everyone. The aim is to maintain a safe and secure environment for all citizens and visitors in Kazakhstan.
- Despite the ban on clothing that interferes with facial recognition in public places, exceptions are made for sports and cultural events.
- Under the new law in Kazakhstan, masks are not allowed for fashion purposes, but exceptions are granted for medical reasons and during sports activities.
