EU Adopts Amendments to Protect Greek Minority in Albania, Sparking Controversy

The European Commission has adopted three amendments proposed by Greek MEP Afroditi Latinopoulou in its Annual Progress Report on Albania’s EU accession process, marking a significant victory for the protection of the Greek minority and the Orthodox Church in Albania. The amendments, submitted by Latinopoulou of the Voice of Reason party, focus on safeguarding the rights and cultural heritage of the Greek minority in Northern Epirus.

The adopted amendments call for:

1. Full autonomy for the Autocephalous Orthodox Church of Albania, halting government interference in ecclesiastical appointments and property rights.
2. Access to primary and secondary education in the mother tongue for national minorities, with a focus on Greek education in traditional Northern Epirus regions.
3. Protection of the Greek minority’s religious and cultural heritage, including the restoration of churches and cemeteries and preventing demolitions that threaten their historical presence.

Voice of Reason hailed the decision as a “diplomatic triumph,” accusing the Greek government of inaction and criticizing MEPs from PASOK, SYRIZA, and KKE for abstaining from supporting the amendments. The party claims these lawmakers prioritized political correctness and ideological agendas, neglecting the interests of the Greek minority in Albania and leaving them vulnerable to policies under Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama.

“The Voice of Reason stands alone in defending Greece’s national interests, Orthodoxy, and the rights of our Greek brothers beyond the borders,” the party stated, emphasizing its role within the European Patriots group in Brussels.

The decision has sparked debate, with critics of PASOK, SYRIZA, and KKE accusing them of abandoning national priorities, while supporters argue their abstention reflects a commitment to broader diplomatic considerations. The development underscores ongoing tensions surrounding the treatment of the Greek minority in Albania as the country progresses toward EU integration according to pronews.gr

Source: pagenews.gr