ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the key components of the right to freedom in the internal affairs of religious or belief groups that illustrate the harsh restrictions on the right to freedom of religion or belief in its collective dimension in Turkey. It examines the protection of the right to establish and maintain places of worship in the national legal system by looking at three key areas where restrictions persist: planning regulations, permission of public authority and legal personality. Currently, teaching of religion in Turkey is a highly regulated and a significantly restricted issue. The chapter focuses on the right to appoint, elect or designate by succession appropriate leaders called by the requirements and standards of any religion or belief. The right to observe days of rest and celebrate holidays and ceremonies in accordance with the precepts of one's religion or belief may be a right with a broad scope depending on the content of the dogma and tradition in question.
