Turkey's foreign ministry on Sunday condemned a decision by Greece to close eight schools catering to the country's Turkish-speaking minority, accusing its neighbour of discrimination. In a communique, the ministry condemned 'systematic practices aimed at undermining the right to education of the Turkish minority in Western Thrace'. 'We once again call on Greece to act in accordance with its contractual obligations regarding minority rights and fundamental rights,' it added. The number of Turkish-language schools left in the north-east region of Thrace -- near the border between the two countries -- is now 76.
Reason for Closure
Greek authorities have said they were closing schools, and not solely in Turkish-speaking areas, because of declining numbers of pupils.
Historical Context
According to 2021 statistics, some 120,000 Muslims of Turkish origin live in Thrace, where they enjoy specific rights in regards to religion and education under the Treaty of Lausanne, signed after the First World War.
