Historic Greek Newspaper in Istanbul Faces Closure

The Greek language newspaper “Apoyevmatini” is one of the oldest newspapers in Turkey. After 86 years in circulation, the Greek paper is now facing closure due to the financial problems which were aggravated by the economic crisis in Greece. Mr. Mihalis Vasiliadis, editor-in-chief of the newspaper, mentions some of the problems the Greek press faces in Istanbul.

“Apoyevmatini” was published for the first time on July 12, 1925. It is a four-page Greek language daily newspaper with news concerning Greece, Turkey and the world. Mr. Vasiliadis took charge in 2002 and continues to publish it by himself, with the help of his son, Minas, working 18 hours per day.

During his career he has faced lawsuits in Turkey, since he was accused of Greek propaganda. After 1975, when he went to Greece, he published the newspaper “Eptalofos” and was accused of not being “aggressive” enough against the Turks. In the end, however, he was found innocent on all accounts.

Unfortunately, the problems of the Greek community in Istanbul and the economic crisis have a negative effect on the newspaper. The Greek population is continuously diminishing, because of the non favorable conditions in Turkey. In 1964, the Greek community numbered 90,000 people. However, after the strict economic measures and the persecutions by the Turks, the number was dramatically decreased and today there are only 610 Greek families, in other words, 2000 people. The number is too small to support a newspaper.

“Due to the crisis Greek companies and foundations cannot support the newspaper financially by advertising and the funds for cultural issues have been reduced and are not used to support the newspapers” explains Mr. Vasiliadis. The other Greek language newspaper which is in circulation in Turkey, “IHO”, faces similar problems.

The Greek state is indifferent. A progressive group of Turks showed their interest about the situation and wanting to help, they became subscribers.

Mr. Vasiliadis emphasizes the importance of the newspaper for the Greek community of Istanbul as it is closely linked with the hardship that people have faced over the years. In fact, the newspaper archives have been studied by scholars.

It would be terrible for readers if the paper gets shut down, as they would lose all hopes for the future of their community, which is gradually disappearing.

via Historic Greek Newspaper in Istanbul Faces Closure | Greek Reporter Europe.