Astana: Kazakhstan has enacted a new law prohibiting face-covering clothing in public spaces, a move officials say is aimed at addressing security concerns related to facial recognition technology.
The legislation, signed by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, includes exceptions for medical reasons, harsh weather conditions, and cultural or sporting events. While the law does not explicitly mention religious attire, it has drawn comparisons to similar measures in Central Asian neighbors such as Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan, which have implemented or proposed bans on the Islamic niqab.
President Tokayev emphasized that the new regulation is intended to encourage the wearing of traditional Kazakh clothing, celebrating the country’s ethnic and cultural heritage while maintaining public safety.
Officials argue that unrestricted use of face coverings complicates security monitoring in public areas, especially as the government expands facial recognition systems for crime prevention.
The move has sparked debate within Kazakhstan and among international observers. Supporters say it promotes national unity and modernization, while critics warn it may marginalize religious communities and limit personal freedoms.
Kazakhstan’s government maintains that the ban seeks to balance public safety with cultural pride, signaling a broader regional trend of restricting face coverings in the name of security and national identity
