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By Ioanna Theou
This news is of major importance. A high-ranking official of the municipality of Elassona had the audacity to hold a Turkish flag featuring the image of Mustafa Kemal, on the occasion of a student exchange between Turkey and France under the Erasmus program, as reported by Proto Thema.
This incident is significant as it demonstrates a complete lack of knowledge among individuals at all levels of authority. How is it possible for a Greek citizen who loves his/her country and respects the struggles of their ancestors, to hold a flag bearing the image of a figure associated with the events of 1922? Especially the events of 1922 which deeply affected Greek populations, and which has significantly influenced modern Turkish foreign policy, including policies toward minorities living within the Turkish state (Kurds, Orthodox Christians).
This news was published just one day after the celebrations of the anniversary of 1821, marking liberation from Ottoman rule and the founding of the Greek state. At this point, several questions arise: Will the deputy mayor of Elassona face any consequences? Was the mayor aware and did he allow this photo to be published? Have we truly understood what the modern Turkish state represents and how it affects the existence of the Greek state? And ultimately, should such actions be considered to be simple ignorance or audacity?
As of 2026, the Turkish population within the Greek state has increased significantly, particularly with the implementation of the “visa express” program, which allows Turkish citizens to visit twelve Greek Aegean islands and continues to this day. The lack of awareness of the Greek government persists, as reflected in its actions toward Turkish provocations. The Greek government continues to maintain a stance of concession in the face of Turkish challenges and its assertive foreign policy—such as the Davutoğlu Doctrine and the “Blue Homeland” concept.
Ultimately, this incident cannot be dismissed so easily. It reveals a deeper erosion of historical awareness and national sensitivity among those entrusted with public authority. Such actions, especially in positions of power, send the wrong message both domestically and internationally. At a time of persistent geopolitical tensions with Turkey -not only towards Greece, but also towards Cyprus as well- symbolic gestures are never neutral. If left unaddressed, incidents like this risk normalizing a dangerous detachment from historical memory and national responsibility.
Resources
Proto Thema, ‘’A deputy mayor was photographed holding a flag depicting Mustafa Kemal Atatürk inside the Elassona town and the strong reaction from the opposition hall’’, 26/03/2026. https://www.protothema.gr/greece/article/1794472/adidimarhos-fotografithike-me-ti-simaia-tou-kemal-atatourk-sto-dimarheio-elassonas-sfodri-adidrasi-apo-tin-adipoliteusi/