Turkish President Ahmet Necdet Sezer addressed the national parliament on Sunday at the start of the new legislative year, using the occasion to reaffirm the constitutional foundations of secularism and national identity in Türkiye.
Sezer argued that secularism takes a distinct form in every country based on its own history and social conditions, and that Türkiye's constitution establishes the principle in a manner suited to the nation's particular traditions and realities. He emphasized that religion may not be used to shape state affairs, politics, or the legal order.
Citing several constitutional articles, the president noted that fundamental rights and freedoms may be limited to protect the secular republic, and that exploiting religion for personal or political gain is expressly prohibited.
On the question of national identity, Sezer said that defining all citizens of Türkiye as Turks does not deny the existence of distinct ethnic backgrounds. Rather, he said, it ensures equal standing for all citizens and prevents groups from being relegated to minority status. He added that in diverse societies, the concept of a single nation serves as the key element holding unity together while still allowing for the protection of differences.
Historical summary. TurkishPress restated this wire report, first published in October 2006, in its own words.