A new Polish regulation, effective September 1st, 2025, reduces state-funded religion classes in public schools to one hour weekly, down from two, despite Catholic Church objections. The change mandates scheduling these classes at the beginning or end of the school day if participation is not universal, aiming for increased timetable flexibility. The Church denounced the move as unlawful, citing a lack of prior agreement, while the education ministry countered that the alteration concerns class organization, not the subject’s existence itself. This action follows previous, contested changes to religious instruction scheduling, some of which are currently under review by the Constitutional Court.
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Bangladesh’s Attorney General, Md Asaduzzaman, has called for significant constitutional reforms, advocating for the removal of the term “secular” and the repeal of the 15th Amendment, which he claims undermines democratic values and the legacy of the Liberation War. He argues that several amendments, including the designation of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as the “Father of the Nation,” contribute to national division and limit freedom of speech. He also criticizes provisions that restrict constitutional changes, claiming they concentrate political power and hinder democratic reforms. Asaduzzaman further condemns the removal of the caretaker government system, asserting that it weakens democratic foundations and compromises citizens’ rights. These calls for reform come amid rising tensions between the Hindu minority and the interim government, with thousands of Hindus protesting against recent attacks and harassment.
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Turkey has been undergoing a profound shift towards religious conservatism under President Erdogan’s leadership. This departure from the secularist values of the original Kemalist republic has raised concerns and sparked controversy, especially within the military, which has traditionally been viewed as the guardian of secularism in Turkey. The military’s historical interventions in politics to protect secularism have garnered mixed reactions, leading to a series of coups throughout the country’s history.
In 2016, an attempted coup to overthrow Erdogan’s government was swiftly quelled, resulting in mass purges across various public institutions, including the armed forces. This crackdown on perceived opposition has further solidified Erdogan’s grip on power, prompting fears of a complete overhaul of Turkey’s political landscape towards Islamist ideals.… Continue reading
As a German Muslim woman barred from working as a lay judge due to wearing a headscarf, I am faced with a complex issue of religious expression clashing with the requirement of neutrality in a secular state. The allegations of bias have raised questions about the role of religion in government positions and the concept of secularism. The debate surrounding the separation of religion and state is not a new one, with examples from around the world highlighting the challenges and controversies that arise when religious symbols are brought into public institutions.
In the case of Turkey, the promise to “free” people from bans on religious symbols led to a loss of secularity and the use of religion for political gain.… Continue reading
As an individual who strongly believes in the separation of religion and education, the recent court ruling in India’s most populous state effectively outlawing Islamic schools is music to my ears. The idea of children being subjected to intense religious indoctrination at such a young age is deeply troubling. Education should be a place where young minds are encouraged to think critically, explore various subjects, and form their beliefs based on rationality and evidence, not blind faith.
The arguments put forth by various individuals advocating for the ban on Islamic schools resonate with me on a fundamental level. The notion that state funding should only support secular education is a reasonable one.… Continue reading
Iran, in my personal opinion, is the biggest tragedy in the Middle East. It’s a nation with immense potential but is held back by religious fanatics who impose their will on the population. The recent revelation that almost three-quarters of Iranians want a secular government instead of a theocratic dictatorship is a beacon of hope in a sea of oppression and tyranny. It’s heartening to see that the majority of Iranians are pushing for a change that aligns with freedom and progress.
The fact that less than one in 10 people believe women should be forced to wear a hijab further underscores the desire for change in Iran.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker