Overview:

• Although Turkey is secular, the Islamic religion maintains a dominant role in the society with detriment to various minorities; however, Islam itself is state interpreted and groups not consistent with this interpretation are banned.

• Registration with the government is practically mandatory due to the construction of places of worship being contingent on registration; permission from municipalities further restricts the registration process.

• Procedures for registration of religious groups are amalgamated with those for secular entities which is not advisable; religious groups have gained registration prior to 1935 still retain their religious classification in law which in turn creates imbalance between the legal natures of different religious groups.

• Laws prosecuting interference with religious services and the defacing or demolishing of religious property only apply to registered religious groups.

• Religious organisations not having legal personality under the law is concerning, particularly as this comes to question their role in the law and also creates further undue restriction.

Positive elements:

• Nil

Recommendations:

• Dismantlement of the present apparatus of laws restricting religious registration; provide recognition to all belief systems without discrimination.