The in-depth interview, contributed to a special report prepared by journalist Merve Bayrakçı for Independent in Turkish. Recent debates in Northern Cyprus regarding the headscarf have intensified societal divisions and brought to light tensions in Turkey-Northern Cyprus relations. Historically, during Turkey's February 28 process, many students facing headscarf bans sought education in Northern Cyprus, viewing it as a cultural and linguistic refuge. However, the recent incident at İrsen Küçük Middle School, where a headscarf-wearing student was denied entry, has sparked significant controversy. Some argue that the student's choice to wear the headscarf was voluntary and that denying her access infringes upon both religious and educational rights. This situation reflects deeper sociological fractures within Northern Cyprus and perceptions of external imposition from Turkey, leading to debates about autonomy, identity, and the influence of Turkish policies on local governance.
