Flagrant violation of the religious freedom of Greek Cypriot enclave in occupied Karpasia

18.4.2012

Question for written answer E-004028/2012
to the Commission
Rule 117
Eleni Theocharous (PPE)

The occupying ‘authorities’ and the Turkish Government are continuing to follow the same policy as before in occupied Karpasia, Cyprus, having refused to allow unimpeded celebration of the Divine Liturgy on the occasion of the Orthodox Easter and denied entry to Bishop Christoforos, thereby preventing him from conducting the service.

Given Turkey's continued implementation of this policy in occupied Cyprus, particularly in Karpasia:

Does the Commission intend to take any measures so that the occupying authorities and the Turkish Government cease this flagrant violation of the religious freedoms of Greek Cypriots, and in particular those forming part of the enclaved community in occupied Karpasia? If so, what are these measures?

OJ C 247 E, 28/08/2013