Latest update: 23/03/2011 

- AKP - Islam - secularism - Turkey


Battle of the booze: Turkey divided over new alcohol regulations

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For the past two weeks, some in Turkey have expressed concern at new regulations on the sale of alcohol. They've sparked a row between conservative Muslims and pro-secular movements; the ruling AKP party, which has Islamic roots, has introduced a number of measures aimed at discouraging people from drinking. Critics fear this is an attempt to force a more Muslim way of life on what's always been a fiercely secular country.

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By Assia Shihab / Cenk Baklan / Reyhan Baysan

Programme prepared by Kate Williams, Marie Billon and Patrick Lovett

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