Western Thrace Turkish Minority Advisory Board condemns call to ban Turkish and headscarves at Gümülcine Hospital
The Western Thrace Turkish Minority Advisory Board has strongly criticized a proposal by members of the Spartakos List in the Municipality of Gümülcine, who called for banning the use of the Turkish language and Islamic headscarves by healthcare workers at Gümülcine State Hospital.
In a written statement, the advisory body representing the Western Thrace Turkish Minority said the request constitutes an unacceptable interference with fundamental rights and freedoms, while also threatening social harmony and the culture of coexistence in the region.
“Interference with Fundamental Rights”
The statement referred to a letter sent by Spartakos members to hospital director Eleni Rofaela demanding that healthcare professionals be prohibited from wearing headscarves and speaking Turkish while performing their duties.
According to the Advisory Board, such demands undermine basic democratic principles and risk deepening social tensions.
“Intervening in individuals’ language and religious expression represents a direct violation of fundamental rights and freedoms,” the statement said.
Language Use and Quality of Healthcare
The board also rejected claims that the use of native languages among healthcare staff disrupts institutional functioning.
Instead, it argued that communication in a shared language can improve coordination and strengthen the quality of healthcare services.
A work environment that respects employees’ identities and cultural backgrounds, the statement noted, enhances professional motivation and productivity—an approach that reflects the values of modern democratic societies.
Importance of Communication with Patients
The advisory board recalled that many minority citizens had previously faced difficulties in expressing their needs due to language barriers when they did not fully speak Greek.
For this reason, it said, communication between minority healthcare workers and patients in a language they understand contributes to more effective and reliable medical care.
“Our Faith, Culture and Language Are Part of These Lands”
The statement concluded with a message emphasizing the historical presence of the minority community in the region.
“Our faith, culture and language are part of these lands; they will continue to exist and live on,” the advisory board said.
The Western Thrace Turkish Minority Advisory Board also expressed hope that authorities would show the necessary sensitivity to prevent unnecessary tensions in society and would take an appropriate stance against such proposals.
The issue has sparked wider debate about minority rights, linguistic diversity and religious freedoms in Western Thrace, a multicultural region in northeastern Greece.
