Greek authorities to close illegal mosques in Athens

Fethiye Mosque in Athens. Photo: wikimedia

The Greek authorities have announced a large-scale operation in Athens to close illegal places of worship. According to official sources, the capital plans to shut down about 60 unauthorized mosques operating without permits and outside the legal framework. This is reported by Helleniscope.

As reported, the measures are being taken within the framework of new legislation regulating the licensing and operation of religious sites. According to the law, all places of worship are required to comply with established requirements — to have necessary permits, meet building and fire safety standards, as well as urban planning requirements. Facilities that do not meet these conditions are deemed illegal and subject to closure.

Greek authorities note that many of the identified mosques were located in basements, apartments, warehouses and other premises not intended for religious gatherings, without any inspections and official oversight. In this regard, authorities declare risks to public safety. As part of the operation, the premises will be sealed, and administrative and criminal procedures will be initiated against the organizers. In individual cases, if foreign citizens are involved, cancellation of residence permits and deportation are possible.

The government emphasizes that the actions are not directed against any specific religion and concern all illegal places of worship regardless of denomination. Authorities state that officially registered and legally operating religious facilities, including the state-recognized mosque in Athens, will continue to operate.

As the UOJ wrote, the ECHR will consider a lawsuit against the placement of icons in Greek courts.

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