18/10/2026
PRESS STATEMENT
PAS CENTRAL ULAMA COUNCIL
STRONG CONDEMNATION OF THE HIJAB BAN IN AZERBAIJAN'S SCHOOLS: THE WORLD'S HYPOCRISY ON WOMEN'S RIGHTS AND EDUCATION
1. The PAS Central Ulama Council strictly views and strongly condemns the ongoing policies and actions by the Azerbaijani government that restrict and ban the wearing of the hijab among female students in schools. Forcing these young girls to choose between their fundamental right to education and obedience to their faith is a profound injustice, psychological oppression, and a blatant violation of religious freedom.
2. Denying the right to wear the hijab in educational institutions appears to be a systematic attempt to strip the younger generation of their Islamic identity and values. For a country with a Muslim-majority population, it is deeply ironic and disheartening to witness such radical secularism being enforced at the expense of Islamic obligations.
3. In light of this oppression, the Council strongly questions the whereabouts of the international community and nations, who were before act as champions of freedom of expression, and women's rights advocates. The hypocrisy of the world today is glaringly obvious. When movements arise demanding the removal of the hijab or advocating for Western-style attire in the name of "freedom," the entire world and global media actively voice their support. Yet, when young Muslim schoolgirls are coerced, barred from classrooms, and denied their basic human right to wear the hijab while seeking knowledge, the world suddenly becomes silent and turns a blind eye. This double standard is utterly disgraceful and proves that the Western-backed human rights rhetoric is fundamentally flawed.
4. Therefore, the PAS Central Ulama Council asserts the following:
Firstly, We call upon the global Muslim ummah and the international community who believe in justice to rise and publicly protest this violation of educational rights and religious freedom currently taking place in Azerbaijani schools.
Secondly, We urge the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), governments of Islamic nations, and global Islamic scholars (ulama) to intervene and not remain passive. The OIC must utilize diplomatic channels to pressure the Azerbaijani authorities to immediately revoke this Islamophobic educational policy.
Thirdly, We express our full solidarity and call upon the Muslim citizens of Azerbaijan, especially parents and students, to remain strong, steadfast (istiqamah), and demonstrate unwavering unity. Defend the faith and religious rights of your children, for the truth will ultimately prevail.
5. The Council reiterates that educational institutions must serve as safe spaces for nurturing morals and intellect, not arenas for religious discrimination.
YB USTAZ DATO' MOHD NOR BIN HAMZAH
Information Chief
PAS Central Ulama Council
18 October 2026 | 7 Jamadilawal 1448 AH
