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Once known for its family-friendly shores and vibrant nightlife, Marmaris is now at the center of national controversy.
In recent days, the Mugla district town became the focus of a sweeping crackdown after disturbing footage of sexually aggressive "dance shows" and inappropriate conduct by bar staff circulated widely on social media. The public response was swift and so was the government's.
According to local authorities and national media, several entertainment venues in Marmaris were hosting late-night dance shows that left both local and foreign tourists feeling harassed, unsafe and uncomfortable.
In videos that went viral, male staff members, reportedly not professional dancers, performed invasive and sexually suggestive moves toward women, often without consent. Some were seen grabbing female tourists by the arm to drag them into bars.
The public outcry prompted an immediate investigation by the Marmaris District Governor’s Office. As part of the operation, police and municipal inspection teams conducted checks across Icmeler, Uzunyali, and Armutalan, inspecting over 100 establishments in the region.
The backlash was not limited to formal investigations. Across Turkish social media, users condemned what they described as “humiliating,” “vulgar” and “dangerous” practices, particularly those targeting female tourists. Hashtags criticizing the normalization of harassment in tourist nightlife zones began trending, while videos documenting the harassment were viewed millions of times.
According to the Guney Ege Touristic Hoteliers Association, this issue is not new but this year’s viral exposure has brought it to the forefront.
"People dancing naked on tables is not entertainment. These are not professional dancers, they are regular staff members," said Association President Cengiz Aygun to Turkish newspaper Milliyet. He noted that the recent backlash has severely harmed Marmaris’s image abroad, citing an English tourist’s viral post that shifted from praising the town to condemning it.
Based on the findings, 14 establishments received closure penalties:
Additionally, Marmaris police initiated legal proceedings for sexual assault against individuals who were seen forcibly pulling women into venues. Others face charges for endangering public safety through pyrotechnics and unlicensed use of flammable materials during performances. Fines were also imposed under the Misdemeanors Law on individuals involved in “indecent shows.”
The District Governor’s Office has confirmed that inspections will continue throughout the summer to ensure all establishments operate within legal and ethical guidelines.
Visitors to Türkiye who experience harassment or assault, whether physical or verbal, are legally protected and can report the incident to local authorities.
The Turkish Ministry of Justice defines sexual harassment as any unwelcome behavior intended to satisfy sexual desire, including verbal comments, sending explicit content, or unwanted gestures. Sexual assault, by contrast, involves physical contact and is treated as a serious criminal offense.
Reports can be filed at any local police station or public prosecutor’s office. Victims should provide any supporting evidence, including messages, photos, videos, or witness testimony. All reports are handled under strict confidentiality laws, and victims' personal information will not be disclosed without consent.
If you are a tourist and experience or witness harassment or assault, follow these recommended steps:
Several resources are available 24/7 for foreign nationals:
Victims can also approach women’s shelters (Mor Cati), legal aid bureaus, or support NGOs such as SGDD-ASAM and the Turkish Red Crescent. These organizations offer legal assistance, psychosocial support, and temporary shelter—all confidential and free of charge.
Investigations are led by the Public Prosecutor, not the police. If you report a sexual assault, expect the following:
Foreign nationals can also receive support from their respective consulates or embassies in Türkiye, including assistance with hospital visits, translation services, and legal contacts.
The Marmaris incidents have triggered a national conversation in Türkiye about boundaries, hospitality, and accountability in tourism. Even though law enforcement has taken swift action, both locals and visitors must remain vigilant. For foreign nationals visiting Türkiye, it is essential to know your rights, understand the resources available, and not hesitate to report abuse or misconduct.
Do not forget that victims are never to blame. Harassment and assault, no matter the context, are crimes under Turkish law. Authorities and support systems are available to help all victims, regardless of nationality.
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