ABTTF issues parallel report in response to U.S. Religious Freedom Report
In this parallel report, the ABTTF detailed the challenges faced by the Turkish Muslim community of Western Thrace regarding religious freedom and the recent developments affecting their religious autonomy.
The ABTTF highlighted that, despite international treaties granting the Turkish community in Western Thrace religious autonomy, their religious freedoms have been consistently violated through Greek laws and government practices. The report notes that, unlike the Greek Orthodox Church or the recognized Jewish community in Greece, the Turkish Muslim community has faced state interference in its religious affairs.
Since 1991, the Greek government has appointed muftis or deputy muftis in Western Thrace, disregarding the muftis elected by the Turkish community. The ABTTF pointed out that elected muftis have faced legal prosecution and imprisonment for the unauthorized use of religious symbols.
The ABTTF also criticized the "Law on the Modernization of Muftis" passed by the Greek Parliament in August 2022, which they argue further undermined the religious autonomy of the Turkish community. Additionally, the report expressed concern over the government’s continued appointment of administrative boards to manage the community’s foundations and the 2008 law facilitating the sale and transfer of foundation properties to local authorities.
In their report, the ABTTF called on Greece to restore the educational and religious autonomy of the Turkish community in Western Thrace, as guaranteed by the 1923 Treaty of Lausanne, and to respect the religious rights and freedoms of the Turkish population in the country.
