Western Thrace Turks Back Defendants in Greece Mosque Trial
Community Voices Support Over Religious Rights Dispute
Gumulcine, Greece
Leaders of the Turkish minority in Western Thrace have expressed strong support for four individuals facing trial in Greece over a mosque-related incident, highlighting concerns about religious freedom and community rights.
Community Stands Firm Behind Defendants
Halit Habipoglu, head of the Federation of Western Thrace Turks in Europe, confirmed that the minority community fully supports the four defendants. Authorities launched legal action after an incident at the Cinar Mosque, where members of the community prevented state-appointed muftis from entering.
According to Habipoglu, the individuals acted because the appointed officials did not represent the local community.
Rights Rooted in International Agreements
Habipoglu emphasized that Greece’s Constitution protects freedom of religion and worship. In addition, he pointed to international agreements such as the Treaty of Athens and the Treaty of Lausanne, which guarantee religious autonomy for the minority.
However, he argued that later legal measures have limited the community’s right to choose its own religious leaders.
Dispute Over Appointment of Muftis
In Greece, authorities appoint muftis and administrative boards for minority religious institutions. The Turkish community has consistently opposed this system and continues to demand the right to elect its own leaders.
The incident dates back to October 2024, when state-appointed muftis attempted to join Friday prayers at the mosque following an official event. Community members stopped them from entering, which later led to legal proceedings.
Longstanding Concerns Over Minority Rights
Habipoglu criticized the case and described it as a violation of minority rights. He reassured the defendants that they have the backing of around 150,000 people from the community.
More broadly, the Turkish minority in Western Thrace has raised concerns for years. These include restrictions on using the term “Turkish” in association names, the closure of local schools, and neglect of historic Ottoman sites.
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