Education Minister Yusuf Tekin Discusses Reopening of Theological School of Halki

In an interview with Turkish television station NTV, Education Minister Yusuf Tekin expressed his desire to see the Theological School of Halki reopen.

However, he emphasized that the final decision rests with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Minister Tekin highlighted the political dimensions surrounding the issue and stressed the importance of reflecting Turkey's democratic background and commitment to secularism.

He acknowledged the historical significance of the school and referred to ongoing efforts to explore its reopening. Ultimately, Minister Tekin clarified that decisions regarding the school's operation would be made by those managing Turkish foreign policy and President Erdogan.

Here are some key points from his statement:

1. Desire for Reopening: Minister Tekin expressed his personal desire to see the Theological School of Halki reopen. He emphasized the importance of reflecting Turkey's democratic values and commitment to secularism through the school's reopening.
2. Final Decision: Despite his personal views, Minister Tekin clarified that the final decision regarding the reopening of the school lies with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the Minister of Foreign Affairs. He acknowledged that the decision-making process involves various political considerations.
3. Historical Background: Minister Tekin provided insight into the historical background of the school's closure. He mentioned that the school trained priests for minorities of certain religions in the Ottoman Empire starting in 1844. He also referenced the closure of the school in the context of political events such as the coup d'état of March 12.
4. Minister Tekin referred to Article 40 of the Treaty of Lausanne, which is a significant aspect of the legal framework relevant to the potential reopening of the Theological School of Halki. This article of the treaty pertains to the rights of minority communities in Turkey, including provisions related to education and religious institutions. It stipulates the protection of minority rights and guarantees their freedom to establish and maintain their own educational and religious institutions. Minister Tekin's mention of Article 40 underscores the importance of adhering to international treaties and conventions in the decision-making process regarding the school's reopening.
5. Legal Analysis: Minister Tekin mentioned that he visited the school on May 29 to analyze the legal basis for its potential reopening. He emphasized the need to consider legal frameworks and international conventions in the decision-making process.
6. Current Status: Minister Tekin noted that, at present, the school legally operates as a high school, although it has no students. He mentioned ongoing efforts to explore the possibility of the school functioning as a theological faculty.

Overall, Minister Yusuf Tekin's comments provide insight into the complexities surrounding the potential reopening of the Theological School of Halki, highlighting the importance of political, legal, and historical considerations in the decision-making process.