Turkey's Constitution Drafters Agree On Freedom of Religion Clause That Will Permit Headscarves In Public Service

The Turkish Parliament in 2011 created a Constitutional Reconciliation Commission made up of representatives of each of the country's four political parties to draft a new constitution. (Background.) World Bulletin reported yesterday that the Commission, which has missed several deadlines for completing its work, has now agreed on a compromise provision on freedom of religion that will allow Muslim women to wear headscarves while serving in government positions. The compromise came after the Republican People's Party (CHP) backed off of its former objections.  The Commission has agreed on the following language:

No one can be forced to participate in religious practices or ceremonies or express their religious beliefs or thoughts. No one can be prohibited from or denounced for fulfilling the requirements of their religious beliefs.

The Commission also agreed on other language to guarantee the equality of all citizens.