The hijab was banned in Turkish public institutions primarily due to the "public clothing regulation" implemented following the 1980 coup, with stricter enforcement beginning after the 1997 military memorandum.
Historical Context of the Hijab Ban
The ban on the hijab in Turkey wasn't a single, sweeping law, but rather evolved through a series of regulations and interpretations.
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Post-1980 Coup: The military coup of 1980 led to the implementation of a "public clothing regulation" which, while not explicitly mentioning the hijab, was later interpreted to restrict its use in public institutions. This regulation aimed to standardize dress codes in government buildings, schools, and universities.
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1997 Military Memorandum: This memorandum, often referred to as the "post-modern coup," put pressure on the government to take a firmer stance against perceived threats to secularism. This period saw a heightened enforcement of the existing regulations regarding headscarves.
Scope of the Ban
The ban primarily targeted:
- Public Servants: Government employees were prohibited from wearing the hijab while on duty.
- Students: Female students were barred from wearing the hijab in universities and schools.
Rationale Behind the Ban
The justification for the ban centered around the principles of secularism (Laicism):
- Separation of Religion and State: The Turkish state, founded on secular principles by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, sought to keep religion separate from public life. The hijab was seen by some as a symbol of political Islam and a challenge to secular values.
- Equality: Proponents of the ban argued that the hijab could create social divisions and put pressure on women who chose not to wear it.
Lifting of the Ban
The ban was gradually lifted over time:
- 2008: Restrictions on wearing the hijab in universities were eased.
- 2013: The ban on the hijab for public personnel was lifted as part of a democratization package introduced by the government.
Current Status
Today, there are no explicit laws prohibiting the wearing of the hijab in public institutions in Turkey. The issue remains a topic of debate, reflecting ongoing tensions between secularism and religious freedom.
