Women in Tajikistan actively resist a government mandate which pressures them to choose traditional Tajik fashion over Western apparel and Islamic hijabs. President Emomali Rakhmon supports this initiative which forms part of a national campaign to enhance Tajik national identity.
The Tajikistan government set July as the target date to release its official policy about what women should wear both at work and at home along with cultural events and celebrations. Heads of the Culture Ministry stated that guidelines which originate from scientific research together with historical records will apply to all women regardless of their age according to Khurshed Nizomi. Fashion designers participate in efforts to spread traditional clothing styles among the public.
Several women from the country have expressed their concerns about these initiatives. Real national issues including power outages, worsening air pollution and population migration take precedence over clothing regulations. Why does the topic of women’s clothing matter to the people of Tajikistan?” pharmacist Firuza Naimova questioned. 
The government of Rakhmon implemented a 2024 law which restricted both importation and public use of foreign apparel items. The implementation of this policy has triggered intensified policing of women regarding their outfits. The hijab remained a religious garment that I wore for nine continuous years without facing any difficulty. Dr. Dzhamila reported that she was required to unveil her hair during a ministry visit and later at an outdoor market this year. Additionally she mentioned that some of her female friends received fines when wearing the hijab.
More and more Tajik women express their demand for personal clothing freedom as public opposition to government restrictions increases.
