Sunday, August 18, 2024 UK tourists are canceling trips to Turkey, vowing never to return, in response to a controversial new animal law that has sparked widespread outrage. Animal welfare advocates are increasingly urging tourists to avoid Turkey due to widespread culling of stray dogs. This summer, Turkey’s hospitality industry has already faced challenges as more domestic travelers opt for Greece, taking advantage of a visa agreement that allows same-day entry.
Now, Turkish tourism is under threat from another angle as British tourists express outrage over the mass canine exterminations allegedly backed by President Tayyip Erdogan and his ruling AKP party, leading to holiday cancellations and vows to never return. Activists Hayley Ashford and Bagdat Ozarslan have raised concerns about the harsh consequences of new legislation that has led to the widespread killing of animals. Disturbing reports and videos from activists within Turkey have fueled the “Boycott Turkey” movement.
In July, Turkish legislators passed a controversial law aimed at removing an estimated 4 million stray dogs from the streets. The legislation mandates the euthanasia of animals deemed aggressive or terminally ill, with severe penalties, including up to two years in prison, for municipal leaders who do not enforce these measures. As this issue gains international attention, Turkey’s tourism sector faces growing pressure and potential losses, with more travelers reconsidering their plans to visit the country.
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