OH SCR21

Urges the Government of Turkey to respect the rights and religious freedoms of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, the spiritual home of the world's second largest Christian church located in Istanbul.

Identifies concerns including Turkey's refusal to recognize the Patriarchate's international status, limitation of Patriarch candidates to Turkish nationals only, confiscation of 75% of the Patriarchate's properties, and imposition of a 42% retroactive tax on the Balukli Hospital.

Notes Turkey's failure to reopen the Theological School at Halki, which was closed in 1971, thereby restricting Orthodox clergy training.

States that Turkey's treatment of the Ecumenical Patriarchate is inconsistent with European Union membership conditions and goals regarding non-discrimination.

Directs that copies of the resolution be sent to the President of the United States, the U.S. Ambassador to Turkey, the Turkish Ambassador to the United States, and the Ohio Congressional delegation.