Türkiye’s evolving approach to minority communities is once again in the spotlight as Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew offers a detailed assessment ahead of Pope Leo XIV’s anticipated visit. In an interview with the Greek newspaper Kathimerini, Bartholomew noted that the past twenty years have been marked by “notable improvements,” especially on issues concerning the Greek Orthodox community and the Patriarchate. While acknowledging ongoing challenges, he stressed that the general climate for minorities has improved significantly, citing a more constructive relationship between state institutions and minority representatives.

A Shifting Climate Ahead of the Pope’s Visit

As preparations continue for Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Türkiye, Bartholomew reflected on the state of minority rights in the country. He described the last two decades as a period of transformation, during which long-standing issues faced by minority communities began to see meaningful progress.

“Conditions Have Clearly Improved for Minorities”

Bartholomew underlined that the improvements extend across a wide range of issues, noting:

Over the past twenty years, substantial steps have been taken toward resolving matters concerning minorities. These include issues directly affecting the Patriarchate and the Greek Orthodox community. Despite occasional challenges, the overall environment has improved. Of course, much more can still be achieved.

The Patriarch emphasized that dialogue and institutional engagement have become more consistent, facilitating a more stable environment for minority populations.

Ecumenical Status and Legal Identity Still on the Agenda

A central item on Bartholomew’s agenda remains the recognition of the Ecumenical Patriarchate’s status and the establishment of a clear legal identity—a long-standing issue for the institution.

Defining the legal personality of our universal Patriarchate, the oldest continuously functioning institution in the country, is essential,” he said, expressing optimism that progress will continue.

“The Day Is Not Far”

Bartholomew also expressed hope for the reopening of the Halki Seminary, closed for more than half a century. He suggested that ongoing discussions are moving in a positive direction, pointing to a key development: the visit of Education Minister Yusuf Tekin to the seminary in May 2024, reportedly at the instruction of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

He noted that this visit is viewed as a sign that the reopening of the seminary may no longer be a distant prospect.