TWMCC Organises Online Lecture on 'Muslim Community in Greece'
- 2024-Dec-11
The World Muslim Communities Council (TWMCC) organised an online lecture as part of its lecture series titled “The Muslim Community in Greece,” presented by Dr. Giasiar Damaroglu, Professor of Islamic Studies at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece.
During the lecture, Dr. Damaroglu highlighted the significance of the "International Day of Human Fraternity," observed on 4th February, describing it as a renewal of the solid foundations laid by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ for human coexistence. He also emphasised that Greece, with its rich civilisation, serves as a model for peaceful coexistence between Muslims and non-Muslims.
Dr. Damaroglu further stated that the freedom of movement is guaranteed in Greece for all citizens, whether they are residents or of Greek origin, across land, sea, and air. He mentioned that the island of Kos is home to the 'Defterdar Ibrahim Pasha Mosque' and special burial sites for Muslims. He noted that the islands of Rhodes and Kos are served by Imams who work to serve humanity, with Muslims in these areas committed to raising their children in accordance with the Sunni traditions.
The lecture also touched upon the situation of Muslims in Athens, where an official mosque has been opened by the government, in addition to several prayer halls. However, Dr. Damaroglu pointed out the challenges Muslims face in Crete, Athens, and Thessaloniki, such as the absence of designated burial sites, despite the presence of a mortuary in Komotini.
