In a world where many nations are becoming more religious, Tajikistan is moving in the exact opposite direction. Despite over 95% of the population being Muslim, the government—led by President Emomali Rahmon since 1992—has spent the last decade passing laws that make it feel like Islam is under a permanent microscope.
In June 2024, this reached a peak with Law No. 2048, which officially banned the hijab and other "alien garments" that do not align with traditional Tajik culture.
1. The "Beard and Hijab" Surveillance
The state’s control over appearance isn't just a suggestion; it is enforced by police raids and heavy fines.
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For Men: Having a long beard is viewed as a sign of "extremism." In recent years, police have reportedly stopped men on the street and forcibly shaved them. Young men are generally expected to be clean-shaven to hold jobs or receive passports.
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For Women: The hijab (specifically the style that covers the neck and chest) is banned in schools, hospitals, and government buildings. Authorities promote the "Tajik style" of headscarf, which is tied behind the neck, leaving the throat visible.
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Fines: Wearing "alien" (Islamic or Western) clothing can result in fines of up to 7,920 somoni ($730) for individuals—a massive amount in a country where the average monthly salary is often less than $200.
2. Why Does a Muslim Government Fight Islam?
To many outsiders, this seems like a contradiction. Why would a Muslim leader restrict his own faith?
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Fear of the "Afghan Effect": Tajikistan shares a long border with Afghanistan. The government is terrified that radical ideas will leak across the border and lead to a civil war, similar to the one that killed 100,000 Tajiks in the 1990s.
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Secularism as Power: The regime uses "Secularism" to ensure that no religious leader becomes more popular than the President. By controlling how people look and pray, the state ensures it remains the only "God" in the eyes of the law.
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Nationalism: The government wants to create a "Tajik Identity" that is separate from the wider Islamic world. They want citizens to identify with their ancestors and their language first, and their religion second.
3. Living Under the Microscope
The surveillance goes far beyond just clothing. In 2026, religious life in Tajikistan is strictly scheduled:
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No Kids in Mosques: Under the "Parental Responsibility Law," anyone under 18 is generally banned from attending mosque services.
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Approved Sermons: Imams are state employees. Their Friday sermons are often written or approved by the government to ensure they don't say anything "political."
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Loudspeakers Banned: In many cities, the Adhan (call to prayer) is no longer allowed to be played over external loudspeakers.
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Holiday Restrictions: Children are now banned from the tradition of Idgardak—going door-to-door to collect sweets during Eid—because the state views it as "non-Tajik."
4. Analysis: Does Surveillance Work?
While the government says these rules keep the country safe from terrorism, many human rights experts argue it actually does the opposite.
"By banning moderate religious expression, you push people into the shadows. When people can't learn their faith in a mosque, they go to the dark corners of the internet, where they are much easier to radicalize."
For all races and religions, the Tajikistan case is a fascinating look at State vs. Spirit. It asks the question: Can a government successfully change the identity of its people through laws and scissors, or does faith simply grow stronger when it is forced underground?
Verified Research & Global Reports
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Amnesty International: Tajikistan 2024 Human Rights Report
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Library of Congress: New Law Bans Hijab and Limits Religious Celebrations
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USCIRF: The Repression of Religious Freedom in Tajikistan (2025 Update)
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