The Issue Of The Aegean Islands In The Lausanne Conference: An Assessment From The Perspectıves Of Dıplomatıc Negotıatıon, Security And Internatıonal Law

The Lausanne Conference (1922–1923) was a critical diplomatic process that not only formalized Turkey's independence and sovereignty in the international arena but also determined the status of the Aegean Islands. This study aims to evaluate the treatment of the Aegean Islands issue in the Treaty of Lausanne from the perspectives of diplomatic negotiations, security concerns, and international law. During the conference, the future of the Aegean Islands was a major point of contention, particularly between Turkey and Greece. Strategic importance, military security concerns, and demographic factors played decisive roles in the negotiations. Under the Treaty of Lausanne, the Eastern Aegean Islands (Lesbos, Chios, Samos, and Ikaria) were ceded to Greece but with the condition of demilitarization. Additionally, the status of islands remaining under Turkish sovereignty (Gökçeada and Bozcaada) and those transferred to Italy (the Dodecanese) was also established. This study examines how the decisions taken at Lausanne continue to influence contemporary Aegean disputes within the framework of international law. In particular, Greece’s militarization of the islands and its efforts to expand territorial waters contradict the provisions of Lausanne and escalate regional tensions. Moreover, differing interpretations of the treaty play a significant role in ongoing diplomatic disputes between Turkey and Greece. In conclusion, the decisions regarding the Aegean Islands in the Treaty of Lausanne remain relevant both historically and legally. This study adopts a multidimensional approach to the issue, offering insights into regional stability and international law.