Kyrgyzstan’s parliament has approved a draft law on freedom of religion and religious associations, introducing multiple restrictions on religious practices and attire. Among the key provisions is a fine of approximately $230 for women wearing the niqab in public places and government buildings, according to local media reports.
Key Restrictions in the Draft Law
Facial Covering Prohibition: The niqab, hijab, and burqa are banned in government offices and public spaces, except for medical, work, sports, cultural, or social events.
Regulation of Religious Figures: Religious leaders cannot conduct events in nursing homes, correctional facilities, or the Armed Forces without prior authorization.
Religious-Based Political Activities: Political parties cannot be established on a religious basis, and campaign materials with religious themes are prohibited.
Distribution of Religious Materials: Religious literature and materials cannot be distributed in public spaces, government offices, or educational institutions, except in religious facilities.
Discrimination Based on Religion: Both offline and online discrimination are prohibited.
Unauthorized Religious Activities: Religious activities and the use of religious facilities without proper registration are not allowed.
Religious Education Abroad
The draft law requires citizens seeking religious education abroad to obtain approval from the State Commission on Religious Affairs and their religious organization’s central governing body.
Additional Provisions
- Door-to-door proselytism is banned, except within religious facilities and educational institutions.
- Materials promoting extremist activities are prohibited from import, production, and distribution.
- Religious propaganda is forbidden in government institutions, municipal offices, and the Armed Forces.
- Involving minors in religious activities or appointing them to religious positions is not permitted.
- Coercion to change one’s faith and activities undermining Kyrgyz national traditions are prohibited.
Violations of the law will result in fines of 200 settlement indicators (20,000 soms or $230) for individuals and 650 settlement indicators (65,000 soms or $747) for organizations.
Follow Daryo's official Instagram and Twitter pages to keep current on world news.
Comments (0)