Islamists and nationalists, hand-in-hand... The harbinger of an anti-secular disaster on the horizon?

I sincerely hope not.

Neither do I, mickfinn. But I'm afraid a rapid polarization has already begun in a significantly divided nation. The parliament approved the bill a few minutes ago. Let's see what will happen in upcoming weeks/months.

Look, I'm old enough to remember when Irish females HAD to wear a scarf and be in a separate part of the church (and were the property of their husbands!)

As long as Turkish females are not pressurised into wear any garment then they should wear whatever is respectful of their religion. All will pass in time if not too big a fuss is made.

They also fear that lifting the ban at universities would pressure all female students to cover themselves up.

I hope this doesn't happen but can see how it easily might.