Recognition of Cemevis as Places of Worship in Istanbul

A Historic Decision for Alevi Community

The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality City Council has made a landmark decision to officially recognize cemevis as places of worship, assigning them to the Directorate of Relations with Religious Organizations and Communities.

This move expands the directorate’s responsibilities to include cemevis and places of worship of other religions, alongside mosques and masjids.

Deputy Chairman of the council group of the Republican People’s Party (CHP), Ülkü Sakalar, welcomed the decision, stating that cemevis are now officially recognized as places of worship.

The ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) group opposed the decision, citing concerns that it overstepped the directorate’s internal regulations and constitutional boundaries.

However, this decision marks a significant shift in the city council’s stance, as a similar proposal was rejected in January 2020 with the votes of AKP and its ally, the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP).

Directorate’s Responsibilities

The Directorate of Relations with Religious Organizations and Communities is tasked with examining, evaluating, and ensuring that proposals, opinions, and requests from religious organizations and communities are reviewed and forwarded to relevant units.

The directorate is also responsible for constructing and maintaining buildings and facilities for places of worship, upholding the principles of impartiality and equality.

Additionally, the directorate provides material support for places of worship and supports educational and cultural activities of religious organizations and communities.

Alevi Community and Cemevis

Alevis make up an estimated 15-25 percent of Turkey’s population, the second largest religious group after Sunni Islam.

Despite fundamental differences in religious practices, the Turkish government has refused to recognize Alevi cemevi as a legitimate place of worship, instead considering it a cultural entity.

Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu has expressed his support for recognizing cemevis as places of worship, stating that it is time to acknowledge their status and provide equal support.