Analysis
The quote aligns with Erdoğan’s documented skepticism of strict secularism (*laiklik*), a principle enshrined in Turkey’s constitution since Mustafa Kemal Atatürk’s reforms. In the 2013 *NTV* interview, he framed secularism as incompatible with his vision of governance, emphasizing a more religion-inclusive state model. His later policies—such as expanding religious education and redefining secularism as 'neutrality' rather than exclusion of religion—further corroborate this stance. Multiple Turkish and international outlets (e.g., *Hürriyet*, *BBC Turkish*) reported the remark at the time.
Background
Turkey’s secularism (*laiklik*) was established in the 1920s–30s to separate religion from state institutions, but its interpretation has been contested, especially under Erdoğan’s AK Party (2002–present). Erdoğan and his allies often argue for a 'conservative democratic' model that accommodates public religious expression, clashing with Kemalist secularist traditions. The 2013 interview occurred amid tensions over Gezi Park protests and debates about Turkey’s identity.
Verdict summary
Erdoğan did make this statement in 2013, and it accurately reflects his recorded remarks on secularism during an interview with *NTV Turkey*.