Azerbaijan enforces hijab ban in schools; protests, detentions, social media restrictions follow

Azerbaijan's new school uniform rules banning religious attire have led to girls being barred from classes, sparking protests in Baku and other cities. On October 12, 37 protesters were detained, and access to TikTok and Instagram was reportedly restricted. The move marks a significant state enforcement of secularism, with male classmates showing solidarity, and raises concerns about religious freedom and civil liberties.