Turkey faces religious debates over hijab and media norms

Religious and social debates have emerged in Turkey regarding Islamic practices and media representation. In Diyarbakır, the Peygamber Sevdalıları Vakfı organized a program titled ‘Niyet Ettim Tesettüre Emrin Başım Üstüne’ at the Hazreti Süleyman complex. During the event, Honorary President Mehmet Göktaş addressed hundreds of children and families, describing the defense of Islamic symbols, specifically the hijab, as a significant spiritual struggle against modern influences.

Simultaneously, the Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) has faced criticism from conservative figures following a broadcast on Diyanet TV. During the program ‘İyilik Vakti’, male and female youths were seen sitting together, which prompted backlash from religious leaders. Professor Ebubekir Sofuoğlu criticized the seating arrangement, questioning whether the lack of gender segregation (harem-selamlık) was intentional and suggesting it violated Islamic principles that the institution is tasked to uphold.