Muslims in Russia’s Krasnodar Region Pray in Secret Amid Lack of Official Mosques

Muslims in Russia’s Krasnodar Region Pray in Secret Amid Lack of Official Mosques
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In the Krasnodar Territory of southern Russia, local Muslims say they are forced to perform daily prayers in cafes, gas stations and other makeshift spaces due to a lack of official mosques and growing restrictions on informal prayer houses.
According to community members, there is no functioning mosque or officially recognized prayer room in Krasnodar city.

Several prayer houses have faced administrative closures, fines and demolition orders. A local court ruled last December that a private house converted into a prayer space must be demolished for violating construction rules. The building was closed in March, leaving hundreds without a place to pray.

Local leaders estimate the region is home to more than 180,000 Muslims, including Tatars, Bashkirs, and migrants from Central Asia and Africa. Community representatives say efforts to create legal prayer spaces are often blocked or dismantled, leaving worshippers at risk of fines or detention for gathering to pray.

A lawyer familiar with the issue called the situation a violation of Russia’s Constitution and international obligations on freedom of religion, but said legal challenges are rare because lawyers see such cases as politically sensitive.

Muslim leaders argue that the lack of prayer spaces and official bans amount to discrimination. They say the region’s stance traces back to past political rhetoric portraying Muslims as outsiders.
Community members are calling for legal recognition of their rights and access to adequate places of worship.