It is striking how Greece has for decades let Turkey make an increasing number of claims without putting its own issues on the table.
The islands of Imvros (Gokceada) and Tenedos (Bozcaada) are classic examples.
The Treaty of Lausanne granted them a special status with an enhanced role in local self-government.
Over time, however, the Turks used every means possible to expel as many Greeks as possible, without Athens ever reacting strongly, not even when international human rights treaties would have allowed retaliation in Western Thrace.
The Greek community shrank but survived, especially in Imvros, thanks to the hard-nosed nature and stubbornness of the Imvriots.
