Research Article Between Laicism and Secularism since 1923: State and Religion Affairs in Türkiye

Abstract

Since 1923, the state’s stance toward religion—whether based on laic or secular principles—has shaped the extent to which political Islamic movements could operate effectively in Türkiye. A distinct pattern emerges, showing a gradual and consistent shift from strict laicism to a more secular framework, accompanied by the steady rise of political Islam. Both laic and secular policies, despite stemming from different motivations, have paradoxically contributed to the growing influence of political Islam in the country. One might argue that the rigid laic policies of the early Republican era actually fostered the politicization of Islam. In this regard, the periods between 1923–1950 and 1997–2002 share similarities: both phases of intense laicism generated stronger Islamic movements and heightened resistance to the regime rather than suppressing them. The former period paved the way for the more liberal but moderately conservative Democrat Party, while the latter opened the door for another liberal yet more conservative actor—the Justice and Development Party (AKP)—to come to power. This article seeks to analyze the connection between the state’s adoption of laic or secular approaches and the ensuing rise of political Islam in Türkiye.