400-euro stipend for Greeks returning to Gökçeada!

It has come to light that the Fener Greek Patriarchate is conducting a covert campaign to increase the Greek population on Gökçeada (Imbros), offering financial incentives. According to reports, the Patriarchate is offering 400 euros per person to Greeks who return to the island, aiming to boost the local Greek community.

This effort by the Fener Greek Patriarchate follows a sharp decline in the island's Greek population since their migration to Greece in 1964. The reopening of Greek schools on the island is seen as an opportunity to bring back the younger generation. The Patriarchate is said to be unofficially providing financial support to Turkish citizens of Greek descent who left during the population exchange but are now encouraged to return and settle. Additionally, Greeks who establish businesses on the island also receive support.

Presently, around 700 Greeks live on Gökçeada, and the number is rising, particularly during holidays like Easter and summer festivals. Recent efforts have led to the opening of a Greek elementary, middle, and high school, with the student population reaching 50 this year. The Patriarchate is focusing on bringing back younger, educated Greeks to rejuvenate the aging population. Incentives are also offered to help young people start businesses on the island.

Concerns over Greek influence on Gökçeada

Meanwhile, retired Admiral Cihat Yaycı has raised concerns over the Patriarchate's actions. He emphasized that Patriarch Bartholomeos refers to Gökçeada as a "small homeland," implying an effort to detach the island from Türkiye. Yaycı warned that Türkiye must remain vigilant regarding these developments, which could represent steps toward separating Gökçeada from Turkish sovereignty. A conference titled "Pan-Imroz: The Reunion of Gökçeada with the Motherland" is scheduled to take place in Athens on September 28-29 under the leadership of Patriarch Bartholomeos, aiming to gather Greeks from Gökçeada around the world.