OPINION | What is happening and what is next?
The Turkish Minority of Western Thrace has consistently strived to forge its path, voicing its demands and defending its rights.
NEW SCHOOL IN HAMITLI: WHERE IS THE RESPONSE FOR MINORITY SCHOOLS?
In Hamitli village, a new primary school will be inaugurated on November 12, with a religious ceremony led by the Metropolitan of Xanthi and attendance by Deputy Minister Kostandinos Gioulekas. However, the long-standing call for a new building for the Xanthi Minority Middle and High School remains unanswered, highlighting a stark case of unequal treatment in education.
RELIGIOUS SCHOOL ON ENDOWMENT PROPERTY: BOLD DOUBLE STANDARDS
As the state continues efforts to control ancestral endowment properties, a new medrese (religious school) was built on these lands with significant funding (€500,000) instead of addressing the needs of the minority high school. This act, inaugurated on October 11, reflects an ongoing disregard for the educational needs of the Turkish minority youth in Western Thrace.
WESTERN THRACE ISSUE IGNORED AGAIN?
As Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan’s visit to Athens approaches on November 8, reports suggest Greek representatives intend to sideline the Western Thrace issue, ignoring the Turkish Minority’s ongoing challenges and the urgent need for solutions, such as the school building problem in Xanthi.
OBJECTIVES FOR THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ELECTIONS
For the upcoming Chamber of Commerce elections in Rhodope and Xanthi, the goal is clear: electing as many representatives from the Turkish community as possible. While this may invite criticism, the reality is evident: mutual support between the communities remains limited. The minority must prepare to protect its rights and strengthen its representation.
The Turkish Minority of Western Thrace remains resolute in charting its own course, demanding its rights, and standing firm for equality.
By C.K.
