ABTTF celebrates Human Rights Day with a call for equality and justice
On December 10, the Federation of Western Thrace Turks in Europe (ABTTF) marked Human Rights Day with a written statement emphasizing the importance of protecting and promoting fundamental rights globally and locally.
The observance commemorates the United Nations General Assembly's adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on December 10, 1948. This year's theme, "Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now," highlights the critical role of human rights in shaping a just future.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres underscored the escalating threats to human rights worldwide, citing rising inequality, intensifying conflicts, and the erosion of international law. He stressed that the violation of one right undermines all rights.
ABTTF President Halit Habip Oğlu reiterated these concerns, focusing on the systemic denial of the Western Thrace Turkish community's rights in Greece. "Our right to self-expression is ignored, our Turkish identity denied, and ECHR rulings remain unimplemented for over 16 years," he stated.
Habip Oğlu condemned hate speech and discrimination targeting the community in Greek politics and media. He urged Greece to honor its bilateral and international obligations, demanding equal treatment and an end to systemic oppression.
