Ilhan Küçük submits written question to the EU Commission on Stigmatization of Civil Society Groups in Greece
On March 15, 2025, Ilhan Küçük, a Member of the European Parliament (EP) from Bulgaria representing the Renew Europe group, submitted a written question to the European Union (EU) Commission titled "Stigmatization of Civil Society Groups in Greece." The initiative was taken following the efforts of the European Western Thrace Turkish Federation (ABTTF).
The question, addressing the 2024 Rule of Law Report published by the EU Commission, references the situation of the rule of law and judicial independence in Greece. The report highlights ongoing concerns regarding the registration of civil society organizations (CSOs), and it cites a study by the Council of Experts on CSO Law of the Council of Europe. This study reveals that certain activities of CSOs in Greece are being stigmatized and even criminalized.
Focus on Minority Groups and Human Rights Defenders
The question points out the continuing issue of stigmatization and targeting of vulnerable groups, especially minorities, in Greece. As an example, human rights defenders and various CSOs representing the Western Thrace Turkish community are specifically mentioned in the inquiry. The ABTTF itself has been the subject of defamation and discrediting attempts. A newsbreak.gr article published in October 2021 falsely accused ABTTF of engaging in harmful activities, leading the federation to file a defamation lawsuit against the website, which is still ongoing.
Request for EU Action
In his question, Küçük asks the EU Commission about the steps it plans to take to address the serious setbacks in democracy, rule of law, and human rights in Greece, particularly concerning the stigmatization of individuals and organizations representing the Western Thrace Turkish community. Küçük seeks clarification on what measures the EU will implement to protect these groups and their right to operate freely and without being unfairly targeted.
This inquiry is part of ongoing advocacy by ABTTF and aims to raise awareness within the EU of the challenges faced by minority groups in Greece, particularly those advocating for human rights and cultural recognition.
