Protests Against Turkey in Northern Cyprus: What Is Happening

Permission to wear headscarves in Northern Cyprus schools has sparked protests against both the local government and Turkey. Representatives of civil society have taken to the streets with anti-Turkish banners.

According to North Korean media reports, the protests erupted on April 8 when two elementary school students attended class wearing headscarves. The school administration removed the students from classes, but later the government of Northern Cyprus made a decision allowing students to wear head coverings in accordance with their religious affiliation.

In response to this decision, civil society groups, several associations, and NGOs organized a week-long series of continuous protests. Despite the government’s decision, teachers announced that they refuse to instruct students wearing religious headgear and have left the school.