Turkey and Azerbaijan clash over school dress code, sparking protests and arrests
Azerbaijan tightened school uniform rules on Sept. 21, leading to the exclusion of some headscarf-wearing girls and teachers, and prompting protests that resulted in 37 detentions.
The amendment to Azerbaijan's school dress code, announced on Sept. 21, prohibits clothing that conflicts with the official uniform or the secular nature of public schools, though it does not name the hijab. Several girls and teachers wearing headscarves were turned away, triggering demonstrations. Authorities responded by detaining 37 participants for disturbing public order. The episode has strained the traditionally close partnership between Azerbaijan and Turkey, which have often described their relationship as "one nation, two states."
Why it matters
The dispute reveals rising friction between two key regional allies over religious freedom and could affect broader geopolitical cooperation.
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