10.10.2026 16:30
In Azerbaijan, the refusal to admit headscarf-wearing students to public schools has sparked debate. While regulations based on the principle of secularism regarding the clothing of students and teachers remain on the agenda, a striking broadcast was aired on Azerbaijan State Television. Accompanied by footage of President Ilham Aliyev kissing the Quran, it was emphasized that Azerbaijan is a Muslim but secular state.
Dress and clothing standards applied in state schools in Azerbaijan became one of the main items on the public agenda after the spread of student images on social media and regulatory changes. After footage indicating that headscarf-wearing students were not allowed inside a school in the Jalilabad region sparked debate, Azerbaijan State Television published a statement reflecting the official discourse on the process.
EMPHASIS ON THE PRINCIPLE OF SECULARISM FROM THE CABINET OF MINISTERS
With the regulation adopted by the Cabinet of Ministers of Azerbaijan on September 21, 2026, the standards of school uniforms in state educational institutions were redefined. Although the term "headscarf" was not directly used in the regulation, it was reported that the use of clothing elements that undermine the integrity of the school uniform and are "not in accordance with the principle of secularism in education" was prohibited. The authority to monitor compliance with the rule was transferred to the Pedagogical Councils of schools.
THE REGULATION WAS EXPANDED TO INCLUDE TEACHERS
While debates that started with students continued, the Cabinet of Ministers approved another new decision, No. 325, making dress and clothing standards applicable to educators as well. With the statement in the decision, "Educators' clothing elements must comply with the principle of secularism in education," it was seen that the scope of the restriction was extended to the teaching staff.
STATE TELEVISION: AZERBAIJAN IS A MUSLIM AND SECULAR STATE
The response to growing criticism on social media came from the screens of Azerbaijan State Television (AzTV). In the broadcast assessment, while the statements "Azerbaijan is a Muslim but secular state" were included, it was emphasized that the implementation of the principle of secularism does not constitute opposition to religious values, and the message "No one can accuse us of not valuing Islamic values" was shared.