TRNC Authorities Revoke Hijab Policy in Schools
The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) has repealed a recently introduced disciplinary regulation that permitted the wearing of hijabs in schools. The decision comes after widespread public debate and controversy over the issue.
TRNC Prime Minister Ünal Üstel announced the repeal during a parliamentary session yesterday. He emphasized that the Council of Ministers does not intend to divide society based on religious beliefs, stressing that such matters should not be confused with personal freedoms, as they could create social tensions—especially when it comes to children.
-
"We are withdrawing the regulation and will hold further consultations to reach a necessary consensus," Üstel stated.
Once these consultations are completed, the proposal will be reconsidered.
Earlier, in mid-March, Northern Cyprus made changes to its school dress code regulations for the first time, allowing students to wear only simple caps and bandanas as head coverings.
The Council of Ministers had previously approved the Regulation on Rules and Discipline, which applies to secondary schools and other educational institutions, both within and outside their premises.
A provision allowing religious head coverings—absent from the previous law—was introduced as an amendment for the first time.
You may also be interested in:
- Customs officers at Kyrenia port to strike on Monday over broken air conditioning
- A protocol on academic cooperation for future teachers signed between Turkey and TRNC
- In the first half of 2025, Ercan Airport served over 2.59 million passengers and more than 17,000 aircraft.
- On the 20th, İsmet İnönü Boulevard in Famagusta will be closed
- The number of stray cats in Istanbul is growing