Türkiye marks 99th anniversary of İskeçe Turkish Union, reaffirms support
Türkiye’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye has congratulated the İskeçe Turkish Union on its 99th anniversary, reaffirming Ankara’s support for the organization’s long-standing legal and institutional struggle.
In a statement shared via its official social media accounts, the ministry described the Union as one of the most established civil society organizations of the Turkish minority in Western Thrace.
Support for Legal Recognition Efforts
The ministry emphasized its continued backing of the Union’s efforts to use its official name, referring to ongoing legal disputes that have drawn international attention.
“We continue to support the Union’s legitimate struggle to use its own name and its determined initiatives carried out in line with the rulings of the European Court of Human Rights,” the statement read.
A Long-Standing Symbol of Minority Identity
Founded in 1927, the İskeçe Turkish Union has played a central role in representing the cultural and social interests of the Turkish community in Western Thrace. However, its legal status and naming rights have been the subject of prolonged legal battles within Greece.
The issue has frequently been raised in the context of minority rights, freedom of association, and compliance with European legal standards.
Broader Context
Turkey’s message comes amid renewed debates over minority rights in Greece, including disputes over religious leadership and institutional autonomy in Western Thrace.
Observers note that such statements underscore Ankara’s continued diplomatic engagement on issues concerning the Turkish minority, particularly in relation to international legal frameworks and human rights rulings.
