Kazinform reports that the lower house of Kazakhstan's parliament has approved, in the second reading, a bill titled "On Preventing Offenses," which introduces penalties for wearing the niqab in public places.
According to the new law, individuals who first appear in public wearing clothing that covers their face will receive a warning. In case of repeat offenses, a fine of 10 MRP (approximately 40,000 tenge, or about $80) will be imposed.
Once approved by the Majilis, the bill will be passed to the Senate and, if approved, will be sent for the president’s signature.
In the summer of the previous year, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a law banning the wearing of face-covering clothing in public places. While the law did not specifically mention the niqab or other religious garments that cover the face, it was clear that these items, along with masks and balaclavas, would be prohibited. The niqab has been a subject of public debate in Kazakhstan for many years.
In the spring of 2024, Tokayev referred to the niqab as an "archaic form of clothing" that radical elements are attempting to impose on Kazakh women. He stated that this represents an "open challenge" to the country’s traditional values.
