Human Rights and Culture Awards in Rumelia presented in Skopje
The second edition of the “International Human Rights and Culture Awards,” organized by Rumelia Opinion Leaders, was held in Skopje, the capital of North Macedonia, celebrating individuals who have significantly contributed to the cultural and humanitarian values of the Rumelia region. At the event, three notable figures from Western Thrace received prestigious awards.
Three Meaningful Awards for Western Thrace
Gumulcine Mufti İbrahim Şerif and President of the Western Thrace Minority Graduates Association (WTMGA) Hüseyin Baltacı were honored for their outstanding efforts in human rights and cultural work in Western Thrace. Additionally, a special posthumous award was given to the late Mufti of Xanthi, Ahmet Mete, who passed away in 2022. His award was presented to his wife, Atike Mete, and son-in-law, Muhammet Fatih Deli.
“The Balkans Should Be a Land of Peace”
In his opening remarks, former Mayor of Bursa Metropolitan Municipality Recep Altepe described the current socio-economic situation in the Balkans as a “new Balkanization process.” He warned of the region’s greatest challenges: despair, emigration, population decline, and economic devastation. “Yet, the Balkans have historically been a region exemplifying peaceful coexistence,” Altepe emphasized.
Turkiye’s Presence Strengthens Bonds
Turkiye’s Ambassador to Skopje, Fatih Ulusoy, highlighted the deep historical, cultural, and spiritual ties between Turkiye and the Balkan peoples during his speech. “We share a historic fate with our brothers and sisters living in these lands,” Ulusoy said, affirming Turkiye’s continued support for the Turkish community in North Macedonia.
“Living Together Must Be Protected with Love”
North Macedonia’s Deputy Prime Minister İzzet Meciti, also an award recipient, stressed that peace and cultural cooperation are not automatic but must be consciously built through mutual understanding and effort. “Peace is not just the absence of conflict but the establishment of a dignified shared life,” he stated.
Awards to TRT, YTB, and TİKA
In recognition of their contributions to the region, TRT, the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB), the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA), and the Union of Macedonian Turkish Civil Society Organizations (MATÜSİTEB) were also honored.
The ceremony concluded with a vibrant musical performance featuring Rumelian folk songs by local artists.
