Outrage is mounting in Turkey after shocking allegations surfaced that two Ukrainian refugee girls, aged 15 and 16, were sexually abused—and impregnated—by hotel staff in Antalya. Four Turkish MPs have slammed the government’s oversight and demanded full transparency over the shocking claims.
Investigative Report Exposes Horror
The scandal broke on 1 December via a damning investigative report by Ukraine’s Slidstvo.Info and Turkish paper Agos. The report revealed findings from a joint March 2024 inspection by UNICEF, Turkey’s Ombudsman Institution, and Ukrainian officials.
It uncovered that the Shostak Foundation, the Ukrainian charity housing the children, allegedly forced victims to sign documents claiming their relationships with hotel workers were “consensual.” Disturbing video footage showed supervisors abusing kids and forcing them to fundraise.
Refugee Children Punished for Saying No
- Children faced punishments or lost privileges if they refused to participate in fundraising events.
- Investigations in both Turkey and Ukraine were quietly closed with no indictments, and the kids were sent back to Ukraine.
Sevda Karaca of the Labour Party criticised the silence, saying: “War-victim children are abandoned under the guise of international aid, while crimes are swept under the rug with impunity.”
Sevilay Çelenk from the Peoples’ Equality and Democracy Party blasted the ministry for its failure to provide safe housing and care. She warned: “These violations are grave breaches of both national laws and international agreements Turkey has signed.”
MPs Brand Abuse Cover-Up a ‘Great Shame’
Mustafa Yeneroğlu, an Independent MP, declared: This case is a great shame for Turkey. The lack of prosecution and support highlights systemic failure and the absence of proper oversight.
Turhan Çömez of the Good Party reminded: Turkey must protect every child on its soil, no matter where they come from.
Despite growing pressure, the Ministry of Family and Social Services has stayed silent on the MPs’ questions — sparking more anger.
Presidency Denies Allegations, Calls Reports ‘Disinformation’
The Presidency’s Communications Directorate fired back on 1 December, labelling the reports “disinformation.” They insisted:
- Children were housed in hotels chosen by Ukrainian authorities and cared for by Ukrainian officials.
- Turkey’s Ministry offered to move children to state care, but Ukraine rejected this.
- The Ministry only learned of abuse claims after children returned home and immediately filed a complaint.
The statement omitted updates on investigation outcomes or whether Turkish probes are still ongoing.
Calls for Justice Grow Louder
With investigations shut down and no charges filed despite clear evidence, MPs and activists cry foul. This case exposes deep cracks in how refugee children’s safety is ensured amid the chaos of war.
