Fasting as an Identity Marker: Ramadan, Secular Organizational Culture, and White-Collar Work in Türkiye

In this study, we aimed to examine the impact of the Islamic tradition of fasting in Ramadan on individuals in organizations located in Turkey, wherein a mostly secular lifestyle is endorsed in spite of the predominant Muslim identity in the country. In this study, a qualitative field study is performed regarding the relationship between fasting individuals and non-fasting individuals within their workgroups, as well as the effect of this practice on fasting individuals. This study aimed to illuminate two essential questions: Do fasting individuals come across organizational or group pressure when they are fasting? Does fasting impact the general well-being of individuals in the workplace? Therefore, this research aims to offer helpful suggestions for enhancing employee motivation and performance in organizations with fasting employees; we anticipate that the findings will promote a more empathetic perspective towards both fasting and non-fasting individuals within the Turkish business context.