The expulsion of Patriarch Constantine VI happened as Turkey underwent drastic reforms aimed at transforming the country into a modern, secular nation, distinguishing itself from the Ottoman Empire's religious underpinnings. Patriarch Constantine VI, a prominent leader of the Orthodox Christian community, particularly among Greeks, had been a significant religious figure within Istanbul's diverse population. Under the new republican regime initiated by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the government sought to curtail the influence of religious authorities in government affairs and promote a national identity that was secular rather than religious in nature.

The expulsion not only removed a key religious leader from Istanbul but also sent a potent message about the direction of Turkish society. This was a time when national pride and unity were paramount, and the Turkish government aimed to establish a sense of homogeneity that often meant sidelining minority populations, including the Greeks. As a result, Patriarch Constantine VI's ousting was representative of the broader socio-political changes affecting not only Istanbul but also the regions where Greek Orthodox Christians resided.

The decision had long-lasting ramifications on the Orthodox Church's presence and influence within Turkey, which diminished significantly as a direct effect of nationalistic policies. Following his expulsion, Patriarch Constantine VI worked from exile, struggling to maintain the unity of his flock under stressful conditions as many Greek Orthodox communities faced repression. This act was part of broader efforts during the early years of the Turkish Republic, where the foundations of secularism were increasingly laid, leading to significant changes in religious institutions' roles within the state.