Increase in threats against Tajikistan

After Tajikistan legalized the ban on wearing the hijab, threats against the government have increased both within the country and abroad.

On May 27, 2024, a video circulated on social media showing three young men, natives of Tajikistan, threatening the authorities with death in Tajik language, particularly targeting the implementers of the Law of the Republic of Tajikistan “On the Regulation of Traditions and Rituals,” which prohibits wearing Muslim clothing in public places.

All three had their faces covered with masks, and two were holding firearms. It is unknown where and under what conditions the video was filmed. The video has already garnered thousands of views.

One of them stated in his address that they are ready to physically eliminate anyone who fights against the hijab in all cities and regions of Tajikistan.

Previously, Abdulhamid Khorasani, an Afghan field commander, ethnic Tajik, and representative of the Taliban, addressed Emomali Rahmon and threatened him with death.

Famous Iranian preacher Muhammad Ansari, who is very popular among Tajik youth, called for the next Friday to be declared “Hijab Day” in Tajikistan.

Muhammad Ansari also urged all women and girls in the country to wear the hijab and take to the streets next Friday in protest against the amendments to the law “On the Regulation of Traditions and Rituals,” passed by the Tajik parliament, which prohibits “clothing that does not conform to national culture,” primarily targeting Islamic clothing, particularly the wearing of the hijab. He also called on their husbands, brothers, and fathers to join this women’s protest and support them.

Tajik youth welcomed Muhammad Ansari’s call for protests and Friday as “Hijab Day” with enthusiasm, and many expressed their agreement with this initiative on social media, with the video of his address quickly spreading among the country’s residents.

Likely due to this, the website of the Supreme Court of Tajikistan, which is usually updated every few months, published a list on May 27, 2024, of 29 organizations, political movements, religious sects, groups, and associations recognized as terrorist and extremist in the country, whose activities are banned on the territory of Tajikistan.