Outrage Hits Turkey Over Shocking Abuse of Ukrainian Refugee Girls
Fury is boiling in Turkey after damning claims that two Ukrainian refugee girls, just 15 and 16, were sexually abused and impregnated by hotel staff in Antalya. Four Turkish MPs have slammed the government’s handling of the scandal, demanding full transparency and accountability.
Investigative Report Uncovers Appalling Abuse
The bombshell broke on 1 December when Slidstvo.Info (Ukraine) and Turkey’s Agos published a harrowing exposé. A joint inspection in March 2024 by UNICEF, Turkey’s Ombudsman Institution, and Ukrainian officials revealed a nightmare.
The Shostak Foundation, the Ukrainian charity sheltering these children, reportedly pressured victims to sign papers claiming their “relationships” with hotel staff were consensual. Shocking footage also showed supervisors abusing the children and forcing them to fundraise under duress.
Refugee Girls Punished for Refusing Abuse
- Girls who said no to fundraising campaigns faced punishments or lost privileges.
- Despite evidence, investigations in Turkey and Ukraine were quietly shut down with no indictments, and the girls were sent back to Ukraine.
Sevda Karaca of the Labour Party blasted the silence: “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 condemned the ministry’s failure to provide safe housing, warning, “These violations are grave breaches of national laws and international agreements Turkey has signed.”
MPs Slam Abuse Cover-Up as a ‘Great Shame’
Mustafa Yeneroğlu, Independent MP, said: “This case is a great shame for Turkey. The lack of prosecution and support exposes systemic failure and absent oversight.”
Turhan Çömez of the Good Party added: “Turkey must protect every child on its soil, regardless of origin.”
The Ministry of Family and Social Services remains silent amid mounting pressure, fuelling public anger.
Presidency Denies Claims, Calls Reports ‘Disinformation’
On 1 December, the Presidency’s Communications Directorate struck back, branding the reports as “disinformation.” They claimed:
- Children were housed in hotels chosen and managed by Ukrainian authorities.
- Turkey offered state care relocation, but Ukraine declined.
- The Ministry only learned of abuse after the girls returned home and immediately filed complaints.
No updates were given on ongoing investigations or any prosecution.
Calls for Justice Intensify
With inquiries shut and no one charged despite damning evidence, MPs and campaigners warn this gruesome case reveals a shocking failure to protect refugee children amid war chaos.
