Published on June 15, 2024, 1:21 am

Image source: Fox News

Turkey’s judiciary recent ruling has fortified the government’s decision to deport nine foreign Christian citizens, labeling them a threat to national security under a controversial immigration code, known as “N-82.” These individuals had been accused of conducting ‘missionary activities.’ Even though they held legal resident status in Turkey, the court ruled their deportation did not infrify on their rights. The assertion was that there was ample discretion for public authorities in matters regarding immigration and border control.

This ruling challenges the real news narrative of freedom of religion being upheld in Turkey. Importantly, this move constitutes an unprecedented collective judgment concerning multiple N-82 cases, breaking new ground in Turkey’s judicial history. It came about despite dissenting voices among the judges who argued there was no tangible evidence pointing towards these individuals’ missionary activities posing a threat to public order or security.

The stark reality faced by Christian pastors with foreign origin working in Turkey has been challenging since 2018. According to trusted news sources like ADF International – a legal group fighting for religious freedom – approximately 185 Protestant ministers hailing from other countries have either been deported or denied entry into Turkey without clear reasons or access to intelligence reports used against them.

Director of advocacy for global religious freedom at ADF International, Kelsey Zorzi shared insight into systemic efforts within Turkey that seemed intent on suppressing Christianity – a violation of both the European Convention on Human Rights and international binding agreements which turkey is part of. Mr. Zorzi noted an alarming trend where foreign Christians are perceived as threats to national security yearly.

However, Constitutional Court President Judge Zühtü Arslan refuted claims of protection of freedom of religion arguing that ‘missionary activities,’ were being directly targeted under the N-82 restriction code, leading to interference with religious liberties.

Further illuminating this issue, Orhan Kemal Cengiz and Can Kurtulan – lawyers representing some applicants affected by these cases pointed out the contradiction within the rulings. According to them, whereas it was evident that the individuals in question were expelled due to alleged missionary activities, the court still could not perceive any infringement on freedom of religion.

ADF International states that this ruling underscores a worrying trend in Turkey. Nationalism and Islamization are increasingly challenging religious minorities, especially Christians who number about 170,000 in a predominantly Muslim population of 83 million.

Overall, examining these events through a Christian worldview reflects an urgent need for reevaluation and commitment to upholding religious freedoms – values vital within democratic societies.