FUEN submits statements to the Human Rights Council of the United Nations

FUEN has submitted two written statements to the Human Rights Council of the United Nations about the situation of its member organisations in Greece. At its 33^rd session, which takes place from 13 until 30 September 2016, one of the items on the agenda is the Universal Periodic Review of 14 UN Member States, including Greece.

The first statement is about the increasing trend in hate speech and hate crimes against the Turkish minority in Western Thrace and calls upon the Greek state to take the necessary steps to prevent these hate crimes against the minority and other groups in Greece. FUEN urges Greece to recognise the right of the Turkish minority to self-identification, to end discrimination and to develop inclusive strategies in the country.

The second statement that FUEN submitted, addresses the lack of respect and recognition for the Turkish minority in Rhodes, Kos and the Dodecanese Islands. The minority in these Greek islands faces problems with education in their native language, with the management of their religious foundations and institutions, with preserving their traditions and with negligence in regard to their architectural heritage.

The Universal Periodic Review (UPR) is a process, which involves a review of the human rights records of all UN Member States. It provides the opportunity for each State to declare what actions they have taken to improve the human rights situations in their countries and to fulfil their human rights obligations. This review is based on several sources, including the contribution of civil society actors, such as FUEN.

FUEN has special consultative status at the United Nations and is therefore able to attend and observe all proceedings, participate in its debates and interactive dialogues and submit written statements to the Human Rights Council. These statements are considered and discussed by the Human Rights Council. The ultimate aim of the Universal Periodic Review is to improve the human rights situation in all countries and address human rights violations wherever they occur.

Statement on the Turkish Minority of Western Thrace

Statement on the Turks in Rhodes and Kos

(Photo: UN Geneva)