Turkey’s parliament has just passed a law which has caused much controversy in the modern, largely Muslim country.
The law would restrict the consumption and advertising of alcohol in the country, which although predominantly Muslim has always been considered a more liberal nation.
The law which was passed on Friday last week, prohibits the sale of alcoholic drinks between 10pm and 6am and also prohibits alcoholic beverage companies from sponsoring events. The law also restricts where alcoholic drinks can be consumed.
While supporters of the law say it will protect society and particular children from the harms of alcohol, critics say it will allow the state, known for being a mix between the Muslim and European culture to become more pious and conservative.
This post from TheAustralian.com.au explains:
Supporters of the measure – introduced by the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP) party, which has its roots in Islam – say the law is seeking to protect society, particularly children, from the harmful effects of alcohol.
But critics see it as a sign of creeping conservatism in predominantly Muslim but staunchly secular Turkey and argue the legislation intrudes into private life.
TV series, films or music videos are not allowed to contain images encouraging the consumption of alcohol under the new legislation.
Despite being a rather secular state, the majority of Turkey’s population is made up of Muslims. And under the current ruling party, which is Islamic-based, more Muslim based ideologies such as headscarves and limiting alcohol has become common. The current Prime Minister has been accused of attempting to make the secular country more conservative.
Another controversial aspect of the law is that it introduces harsher punishments for people caught drink driving. Drivers will be issued with a hefty fine (approximately $A400) and have their licences taken away and not be allowed to drive for 6 months – this is for people caught driving over the 0.05 limit however people over 0.1 will face jail time of up to 2 years imprisonment. If that doesn’t serve as a deterrent to drink driving, I don’t know what will!
The article goes on to state:
Drivers with a blood alcohol content of more than 0.05 per cent will be slapped with a 700-Turkish lira (nearly $A400) fine and their driving licences will be confiscated for a six-month period.
Drunken drivers with a blood alcohol level over 0.1 per cent will face up to two years’ imprisonment.
The law must be approved by President Abdullah Gul to take effect. He is expected to sign it soon.
Prime Minister RecepTayyipErdogan’s populist government, in power for over a decade, is often accused of creeping efforts to make the country more conservative and pious.
Erdogan, a devout Muslim who does not drink or smoke, said recently that ayran, a non-alcoholic refresher made from yoghurt, was the “national drink” of the Turks.