ABSTRACT
This study explores the relationship between the JDP and the Diyanet, enabling an understanding of not only the JDP’s approach to state-religion relations but also whether it can be considered a defender and supporter of passive secularism in Turkey. First, it presents a brief history of the Diyanet, focussing on the main turning points in its history in order to better analyse its transformation under JDP rule. Second, it concentrates on the Diyanet’s transformation during the JDP’s period of tenure. Third, it shows how its activities have widened in order to cover almost all aspects of everyday life.
