The story is almost unbelievable: The girl's parents, both lawyers, should have understood legal matters best. Their years-long dispute stemmed from the mother's desire for her daughter to be baptized and given a saint's name, while the father preferred a simple name.

After their divorce, both parents maintained their stances. The mother insisted on a name adhering to Greek Orthodox tradition, while the father desired a different one. The girl grew up and attended school without an official name. Her temporary designation during this period remains undisclosed.

The case eventually reached the Greek Supreme Court, Areopagus, where judges grew impatient with the prolonged family dispute. According to the Greek legal newspaper Nomiki Bibliotiki Daily, the court recently ruled to uphold the child's rights.

Judges emphasized prioritizing the child's best interests and her psychological and social development needs. After nine years without an official name, the girl finally received an identity.

The court named her Melina, after the saint whose feast day aligned with her birthday. She will also undergo an Orthodox Christian baptism. The court rejected the parents' request for a double name.

The court stated its decision was based on religious traditions and customs, serving as a neutral and fair measure to protect the child's rights. To prevent further disputes, the court also designated the church for the baptism.

This unusual naming dispute created serious repercussions for the child. Nine years without an official name led to administrative obstacles in daily life, impacting everything from school registration to identity documents.

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child affirms that a name at birth is a fundamental right for every child. "Every person links their identity to their name. Children also have the right to identity and distinction," the convention states.

Hai Thu (According to Heute, Tanea)