Tajikistan cracks down on Islamic symbols after Moscow attack

In response to a terrorist attack in Moscow in March, where Tajik men were arrested, Tajikistan has intensified its crackdown on visible signs of Islam, including beards and headscarves. This government action has led to public displays of authority, such as officials trimming beards deemed too long in public spaces. The crackdown has raised concerns among citizens, with individuals like Nilufar expressing fear of retribution for their religious expressions, such as wearing hijabs. The country, with a predominantly Muslim population of 10 million, faces significant challenges that contribute to a potential breeding ground for extremism. Issues such as poverty, high unemployment, and a lack of educational opportunities are prevalent, alongside grievances against an autocratic regime that imposes strict regulations on religious practices. Critics argue that the government's approach fails to address the root causes of terrorism. Instead of fostering a more inclusive environment for religious expression, the authorities have opted for superficial measures that target the outward symbols of faith. This has included increased scrutiny of individuals who wear traditional Islamic attire, leading to a climate of fear and repression. The government's focus on regulating appearance rather than addressing underlying social issues has drawn criticism from counterterrorism experts. As the situation evolves, the effectiveness of these measures in combating extremism remains questionable. Many believe that without addressing the socio-economic factors contributing to radicalization, such policies may only serve to alienate the population further, potentially exacerbating the very issues they aim to resolve.