Recognition of the Pontic Greek genocide

23.5.2018

Question for written answer E-002754-18
to the Commission
Rule 130
Lefteris Christoforou (PPE)

The EU, in a sign of respect for the historical truth and in honour of the victims of the Armenian genocide, rightly recognised the Armenian genocide. The Young Turks did not stop at the genocide of Armenians, but also carried out the genocide of Pontic Greeks.

Approximately 353 000 Pontic Greeks were the victims of Turkish atrocities and were sacrificed in an unprecedented genocide between 1916 and 1923.

The unforgettable Pontic homelands lived through the horrific genocide, expatriation and the elimination of all Greek Christian elements.

It is our collective duty to fight for the international recognition of the Pontic Greek genocide, in order to increase historical memory, and so that such recognition may serve as a symbolic act for the prevention of similar crimes against humanity. The EU, therefore, must recognise the Pontic Greek genocide immediately.

At the same time the EU must invite Turkey to recognise the genocides carried out by the Young Turks. Justice begins with the recognition of the genocide; Turkey’s obligation to recognise historical truth is an urgent need.

The Commission is asked:

How does it intend to recognise the Pontic Greek genocide?

How does it intend to apply pressure on Turkey so that it will recognise the Armenian and Pontic Greek genocides?