Azerbaijan Blocks Social Media Amid Hijab Protests

In Azerbaijan, social media platforms Instagram, TikTok, and X faced blocking across multiple internet service providers as protests erupted against a school hijab ban. This clampdown on communication began as students protested rules excluding hijab-wearing girls from classrooms. The Proton observatory reported a surge in VPN sign-ups from Azerbaijani users, reaching over 4000% above the baseline. Despite widespread disruptions, neither authorities nor the platforms have provided explanations.

Protests surfaced on October 12, coinciding with the enforcement of new school dress codes that rights defenders claim target the hijab. Law enforcement detained 37 individuals as frustrations intensified in Baku. This marks another instance where Azerbaijan restricts social media during local crises. Recent changes in Azerbaijani law permit blocking websites without court orders, raising concerns over freedom of expression.

For a detailed understanding of how Azerbaijan blocks social media amid growing tensions, read the full article below.

https://protonvpn.com/blog/protest-over-azerbaijan-hijab-ban-result-in-social-media-blocks