Islam in Central Asia

As the last country in Central Asia to do so, Kazakhstan has outlawed face coverings to increase public safety, a move that might put religious groups under pressure.

While likely temporary, the suspension is the latest example of visa restrictions faced by the citizens of the Central Asian country.

Islamic practices in Uzbekistan, after enduring seven decades of Soviet-imposed atheism, are now being increasingly adopted by the younger generation. 

As Central Asian governments tighten restrictions on the hijab in the name of upholding secularism, devout Muslim women find themselves forced to navigate an increasingly difficult choice between their faith and the law.

As Islamic practices rise in Uzbekistan, authorities do their best to maintain a secular public sphere.

As the next school year approaches, it seems some officials are trying to pressure teachers and students to uncover. It’s a violation of their rights. 

If enacted, a new draft law will add fines and possible jail time for parents that seek illegal Islamic education for their children. 

The overwhelmingly authoritarian governments in Central Asia have utilized severe repression against Islamist movements – extremist or not.

As long as people have limited opportunities in the socioeconomic and political arenas, and adherence to a religious lifestyle is restricted, pilgrimages will remain as an accessible means of self-fulfillment. 

Solidarity with and concerns about Palestine are not a new development among Uzbeks, but there have been a variety of responses to the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

Journalists, influencers, and religious teachers are using social media to inform Central Asians about the Israel-Hamas war.

The popularity of religious figures in Uzbekistan is tied to their legitimacy, itself derived from their formal positions within government-affiliated religious institutions.