Secularism is indispensable

On June 11, 2025, the following news was published on the 12punto website:

Swimwear ban for women in Syria: Al-Sharaa administration intervenes

It was stated that a decree issued by the Ministry of Tourism of the Syrian Interim Government, which took power in the country after the fall of Assad, banned women from using public beaches and swimming pools unless they wear swimwear that completely covers the body, such as a burkini, while the use of "Western-style swimwear" remains permitted in private clubs and luxury hotels.

There is an issue here that I would like to bring to the attention of the esteemed 12punto editors. The news text states, "This rule, which was not even introduced under the Assad administration, has caused outrage in the country." Although it says "News Source: 12punto" at the bottom of the page, I would like to believe that this phrase remained from another text that was quoted.

I am sure that the valuable staff of 12punto know that the Ba'ath regime, which was toppled in Syria, was the most secular regime in the Middle East and that the Assad government did not interfere in women's attire in this manner. I feel saddened by such errors because I know that the feature that distinguishes 12punto from its counterparts is its editorial line based on accurate information and filtered through ideological clarity. I hope they accept this as a friendly critique.

The Ba'ath Party, in addition to adopting Arab nationalism, anti-imperialism, and a unique form of Arab socialism, possessed a secular understanding of governance. Among the party's founders and leaders were Christians, such as Michel Aflaq. When evaluated within its own conditions, it would not be out of place to state that the period during which the Ba'ath Party ruled possessed much more progressive elements for Arabs compared to the current situation. In particular, it cannot be said that the current states of Iraq and Syria are better than the past.

Furthermore, there are questions that those who define themselves as Islamists must answer sincerely. Who benefited most from the fall of Assad? If Israel can attack Iran with ease today, who is responsible for that? Instead of raiding coffee shops and burger joints to protest Israel, it would be beneficial for them to make a proper assessment and think about who they are actually in alliance with, whether knowingly or unknowingly.

SECULARISM IS MOST IMPORTANT FOR THE POOR

The new Syrian administration, supported by imperialists and Israel, ostensibly adopts Islamic rules but exempts private clubs and luxury hotels from dress code restrictions. How familiar, isn't it? The wealthy are exempted from certain bans and restrictions that are claimed to be religiously motivated. Those who have money can dress as they please.

What is left for the poor are archaic rules, misery, and plenty of resignation.

We see how important secularism is, and that it is vital, first and foremost, for the poor and the large masses who live by selling their labor. Unfortunately, a similar situation exists in our country. While religious references in education are increasing, you can purchase a secular education if you pay the price.

Secularism is of vital importance for this country, like water and air. If our people can live together, it is thanks to secularism. The proof that religion is not a unifying element for society can be seen in Iraq and Syria. The existence of those who watch Iran being attacked with secret joy, even if not openly, due to sectarian differences is a current example of this.

The events taking place in our region and the world remind us of the importance of the Turkish Revolution every time. The Six Arrows are still current. Without exception, each one of them acts like a bright star, guiding us toward the solutions to the problems we face. We understand better that the foreign policy approach of the young Turkish Republic must never be abandoned. Despite everything, the Republic and the ideal of building a new society have been successful. If we are in a much better position today than our eastern and southern neighbors, we owe this to the Republic and our revolutions, especially secularism.