In the USA 2020 International Religious Freedom Report, it was stated that Turkey’s government, which has made it difficult for minorities to open places of worship, does not recognize the leadership and administrative structures of non-Muslim minorities, and Turkey does not “give the necessary support to minority schools.”
Announcing the USA 2020 International Religious Freedom Report, Foreign Minister Antony Blinken said that hostility towards Islam, Christianity and Judaism has increased in different parts of the world.
In the report in Sputnik, in which the Presidency of Religious Affairs was introduced, it was stated that the entry bans and deportations of non-Turkish leaders of Protestant communities accelerated. In the report, it is stated that it is difficult for minorities to open places of worship, and the government “does not recognize the leadership or administrative structures of non-Muslim minorities.”
In the Turkey section of the report, the government’s policies regarding various faith groups, especially minorities, were evaluated.
The report also stated that the government did not provide sufficient funds to minority schools: “The government continued to fund non-Muslim public, private and religious schools. However, he did not provide any support for minority schools recognized under the Treaty of Lausanne, other than paying the salaries of courses taught in Turkish, such as Turkish literature. Minority congregations financed all their expenses with donations, including church foundations and alumni.”
Racist Attacks Against Alevis
The report also included the racist attacks against Alevis, explained the Madımak Massacre that took place in Sivas, and stated that the Alevi population living in Dersim was being tried to be displaced. In addition, it was stated that they had problems in the education system and worship, by reminding the compulsory religion classes, which some families took legal action.
Attacks on Places of Worship
According to the news in the press, “Vandalism against Christian cemeteries is increasing” it was stated that expressions linking the coronavirus with Jews were also used on social media. (Haber Merkezi)
