Published: 12:48 AM, 03 July 2026
How Far Turkey Has to Go for Adopting Secular European Values
Rifat Rafique Badhan
Turkey has long occupied a unique position between Europe and Asia, serving as a bridge between Eastern traditions and Western modernity. Since the establishment of the Republic in 1923, the country has pursued a vision of modernization inspired by Europe. However, despite significant progress over the past century, Turkey still faces considerable challenges in fully embracing secular European values. Political developments, religious influence, human rights concerns, and democratic standards continue to shape the debate over Turkey's place in Europe.
The foundation of modern Turkey was laid by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who introduced sweeping reforms aimed at transforming the former Ottoman Empire into a secular and democratic republic. He abolished the caliphate, separated religion from state affairs, replaced Islamic law with civil law, introduced the Latin alphabet, expanded women's rights, and promoted Western education. These reforms established secularism as one of the core principles of the Turkish Republic and brought the country much closer to European political and social values.
For decades, Turkey maintained a strong commitment to secular governance. Its institutions, particularly the judiciary and military, acted as guardians of secularism. Turkey also became a member of NATO and the Council of Europe, demonstrating its strategic and political alignment with the West. In 1999, it was officially recognized as a candidate for membership in the European Union (EU), raising hopes that full European integration was within reach.
However, the path toward adopting European values has become increasingly complex in recent years. One of the major concerns is the growing role of religion in politics. Under the leadership of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the Justice and Development Party (AKP), critics argue that Turkey has gradually moved away from the strict secularism established by Atatürk. Religious education has expanded, the influence of religious institutions has increased, and public policies have increasingly reflected conservative Islamic values. Although the government insists that it respects secularism while protecting religious freedoms, many observers believe that the balance between religion and state has shifted significantly.
Another challenge lies in the state of democracy and the rule of law. European values emphasize independent courts, freedom of expression, transparent governance, and the protection of civil liberties. International organizations have repeatedly expressed concern over restrictions on journalists, academics, political opponents, and civil society organizations in Turkey. Arrests of journalists, limitations on media freedom, and legal actions against opposition figures have raised questions about the country's commitment to democratic principles.
Human rights remain another area requiring substantial improvement. While Turkey has made legal reforms over the years, issues involving freedom of assembly, minority rights, gender equality, and judicial independence continue to attract criticism. The rights of the Kurdish minority remain particularly sensitive, with ongoing tensions surrounding cultural recognition and political representation. Women's rights organizations have also voiced concerns over increasing violence against women and the country's withdrawal from the Istanbul Convention, an international treaty designed to combat violence against women.
The European Union has repeatedly stressed that membership requires not only economic cooperation but also strict adherence to democratic standards, human rights, and the rule of law. As a result, Turkey's EU accession negotiations have slowed considerably. Although both sides continue to cooperate on issues such as migration, trade, and regional security, political differences have created significant obstacles to closer integration.
Economically, Turkey has demonstrated remarkable growth and industrial development over the past few decades. Its diversified economy, young population, and strategic location make it an important regional power. However, economic instability, inflation, currency depreciation, and concerns over central bank independence have weakened investor confidence. European values also emphasize transparent economic governance and institutional stability, areas where further reforms could strengthen Turkey's international standing. Education also plays a crucial role in shaping European values. A modern education system that promotes scientific inquiry, critical thinking, tolerance, and civic responsibility is essential for sustaining secular democracy. While Turkey has expanded access to education, debates continue over curriculum changes, religious instruction, and academic freedom. Strengthening educational independence and encouraging open intellectual discussion would further support democratic development.
It is important to recognize that secular European values do not require abandoning religious beliefs or cultural identity. Rather, they promote equal treatment of all citizens regardless of religion, freedom of conscience, respect for diversity, gender equality, and democratic participation. Many European countries successfully combine religious traditions with secular governance by ensuring that state institutions remain neutral while protecting individual freedoms.
Turkey's society itself reflects a diversity of opinions. Many citizens continue to support closer relations with Europe and advocate democratic reforms, while others prioritize national sovereignty, traditional values, and independent policymaking. This diversity demonstrates that Turkey's future direction remains a matter of ongoing democratic debate rather than a predetermined outcome.
Despite existing challenges, Turkey possesses significant strengths that could support greater alignment with European values. Its vibrant civil society, dynamic youth population, entrepreneurial economy, and long-standing institutional connections with Europe provide a solid foundation for future reforms. Renewed efforts to strengthen judicial independence, protect freedom of expression, uphold human rights, and reinforce secular governance would enhance both domestic stability and international credibility.
Ultimately, the journey toward fully adopting secular European values is not simply about joining the European Union. It is about building institutions that guarantee equality before the law, protect fundamental freedoms, and encourage democratic participation for all citizens. Turkey has already travelled a considerable distance since the founding of the republic, but important milestones remain ahead.
Whether Turkey ultimately deepens its integration with Europe or pursues a distinct political path, its continued commitment to democracy, secularism, human rights, and the rule of law will play a decisive role in determining its future. The country's ability to balance its rich cultural heritage with modern democratic principles will shape not only its relationship with Europe but also its position in the global community for generations to come.
Rifat Rafique Badhan is a
freelancer and a columnist.
