On September 30, 2025, history was made in Brussels at the European Parliament. For the first time, the issue of the Ahıska Turks—who have endured exile, statelessness, and injustice for nearly a century—was addressed on such a high-level platform before the eyes of the world. The conference, titled *“Georgia’s European Integration: The Issue of the Ahıska Turks as a Criterion for Compliance with EU Standards”*, was hosted by Member of the European Parliament Ilhan Küçük and organized with the support of the “Vatan” Society. At the heart of the discussions were Georgia’s obligations regarding the return of the Ahıska Turks to their homeland. The issue was highlighted not only as a responsibility of Georgia but also as one of the most important tests of the European Union’s commitment to democracy, human rights, and justice. **Speakers included:** – Ilhan Küçük, Member of the European Parliament — opening and closing remarks – Fuad Pepinov, Representative of the “Vatan” Society – Ansar Usmanov, Deputy Chairman of the “Vatan” Society – Dr. Zora Popova, FUEN scientific advisor and independent international minority rights expert – In place of UN Special Rapporteur on Minority Issues Nicolas Levrat, who was unable to attend due to family reasons, FUEN’s representative to the European Parliament, Johan Haggman, delivered remarks. Participants discussed the dramatic history of the Ahıska Turks, the ongoing obstacles in the repatriation process in Georgia, and the responsibilities of the EU and international institutions. It was especially emphasized that Georgia’s EU candidate status presents a unique opportunity to finally turn decades of unfulfilled promises into concrete action. This issue was framed not merely as a matter of minority rights, but as a test of Europe’s conscience and its fidelity to its own values of justice. By the end of the conference, there was consensus on the development of concrete programs for the Ahıska Turks in Europe. This marked a declaration that the issue of the Ahıska Turks will continue to reach higher authorities and gain greater strength on the European agenda. The conference showed that the just cause of the Ahıska Turks is not only the cry of their own people but has also become a call for justice resonating in the heart of Europe and for all humanity. In the final Q&A session, Cavid Aliyev, Chairman of the Vatan Society, and Ahmed Aslanov took the floor, voicing the concerns of the Ahıska Turks. Their words reminded everyone present once again: this issue can no longer be postponed; the time for justice has come.
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