The Committee of the Muslim Alevi-Bektashis of Thrace in Greece
Thank you Madame Chair. Under this agenda item, I would like to speak about the situation
of the Muslim Bektashi-Alevi minority in Greece following the recent recognition of our
community’s legal personality. The decision of the Hellenic Parliament on 1 August 2025 was
an important and positive step. It gave our community legal recognition, visibility, and a
greater sense of security. We appreciate this decision and see it as contribution to freedom
of religion and peaceful coexistence in our country. But legal recognition alone is not
enough. Since then, we have continued to face serious challenges. Some local media
outlets and social media users have spread false and harmful messages about our
community, including pressure and exclusion for certain groups within the wider Muslim
minority. These problems show that prejudice, mistrust, and misinformation still obstruct
peaceful coexistence. To move forward, we need clearer action from both the state and local
communities. First, we need more dialogue between cultures, between faiths, and among
all members of the Muslim minority in Thrace. Second, educators and the media must play
a more active role in stopping misinformation and stigma. Fair and accurate representation
is essential to overcome old prejudices. Third, cooperation between the state and
communities must increase. Community initiatives, mediation, and practical cooperation
can be prevent misunderstanding and [cut off by Chair].