Kazakhstan: Ban on Face-Covering Clothing Under Review

Kazakhstan may prohibit the wearing of clothing that conceals the face, Orda.kz reports.

The Senate is currently reviewing a proposed amendment to the law “On the Prevention of Offenses”, which would ban garments that obstruct facial identification. The discussion took place during a meeting of the working group on constitutional legislation, the judicial system, and law enforcement agencies.

Under the proposed changes, face-covering items such as masks and balaclavas could be banned when worn outside of legally permitted circumstances.

Exceptions are outlined in the amendment: face coverings will still be allowed for medical reasons, while performing official duties, during adverse weather conditions, in civil defense situations, and when participating in sports or cultural events.

Original Author: Ilya Astakhov