Resistance or assimilation: the challenge of Alevi communities in Turkey for the recognition of Cem houses

Abstract

Throughout its history, Turkish Alevism has always existed on the political periphery, often being persecuted by the ruling elites. During the 20th century, with the birth of the Republic of Turkey, the Alevi community embraced the secular values of the state. However, the emergence of contemporary political Islam has been posing serious difficulties for the Alevi population since the 1980s. On the one hand, Alevi communities have been subjected to violent attacks by Islamist and nationalist radicals. On the other hand, the various governments have not only failed to officially recognize the Alevi religion, but have also pursued policies of assimilation. This article aims to present the development of the Turkish Alevi community by analyzing the debate on the official recognition of their places of prayer, the Cem houses, as well as by identifying governmental assimilationist policies.