ABTTF becomes member of European Language Equality Network
UNANIMOUS VOTE BRINGS ABTTF INTO LANGUAGE RIGHTS NETWORK
The Federation of Western Thrace Turks in Europe (ABTTF) has officially joined the European Language Equality Network (ELEN) after a unanimous vote during its 22nd Ordinary General Assembly, held on April 19, 2025. With this move, ABTTF becomes part of a broad coalition committed to the protection and promotion of regional and minority languages across Europe.
A NETWORK DEFENDING LINGUISTIC DIVERSITY
Established in 2011 following the closure of the European Bureau for Lesser-Used Languages (EBLUL), ELEN works with key international institutions such as the European Union, the Council of Europe, and the United Nations to advocate for linguistic diversity. Representing approximately 50 million speakers of regional, minority, or endangered languages within the EU — roughly 10% of the total population — ELEN plays a critical role in shaping language-related policy at the supranational level.
A GROWING PLATFORM OF CIVIL SOCIETY ACTORS
With ABTTF's inclusion, ELEN now comprises 72 member organizations from 25 different countries. These include civil society groups, language schools, parent associations, cultural foundations, academic institutions, and research centers. The current president of ELEN is Professor Elin Haf Gruffydd Jones.
ENGAGEMENT IN EUROPEAN LEGISLATION
ELEN actively monitors legislative proposals that could impact regional and minority languages and intervenes to protect their interests. This includes submitting amendment proposals to relevant reports of the European Parliament, contributing to recommendations by the European Commission, and issuing comprehensive policy reports to ensure minority voices are heard in decision-making processes.
