Kazakhstan Bans Burqa and Niqab: Reactions and Debate
In a move aimed at bolstering public safety and upholding secular values, Kazakhstan’s President Tokayev signed a bill prohibiting face-covering veils in public, with exemptions for medical needs, severe weather, civil defense, and cultural events. The government asserts these garments hinder identification and contradict national traditions and identity. This action follows a prior ban on headscarves in schools and mirrors similar policies adopted by neighboring countries like Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. These measures have, however, faced criticism from human rights organizations, who argue that they may marginalize religious communities and infringe on individual freedoms.
John Q. Hosedrinker