The Greek Orthodox community in Aleppo, Syria, needs protection now
16.12.2024
Priority question for written answer P-002962/2024
to the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
Rule 144
Nikolaos Anadiotis (NI)
The Greek Orthodox community in the Syrian city of Aleppo is at risk of extinction from repeated attacks by jihadist/extremist groups backed by Türkiye. These attacks, which are also targeted against the Greek Orthodox Metropolitan of Aleppo, Ephraim, are leading, among other things, to a very serious humanitarian crisis – and most probably a migration crisis too –, undermining the cultural heritage of a community with a centuries-old history, along with European stability and security.
This critical and deteriorating situation calls for decisive action from the EU, which has a historical and ethical responsibility. It also calls for the EU to quickly crank up its political influence, both with a view to using every means possible to exert diplomatic pressure to protect the community and its bishop and with the aim of strengthening humanitarian aid. It is also vitally important to ensure safe repatriation for those wishing to return to Greece.
In light of the above, I would like to ask the Vice-President of the Commission / High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy the following:
- 1.What steps is the EU planning to take to protect Aleppo’s Greek Orthodox community, which is a cultural and religious minority?
- 2.Does it intend to boost humanitarian aid and facilitate the repatriation of the community’s members and, if so, how?
- 3.What measures does it plan to take to protect the religious and cultural heritage of this long-established local community, to avoid any further delays, inaction and violation of fundamental human rights?
Submitted: 16.12.2024