Alarming Rise in Child Sexual Abuse Cases in Turkey: A Deepening Crisis
Data from the Turkish Ministry of Justice indicates a significant increase in child sexual abuse cases across the country. The number of files opened by public prosecutors nearly doubled between 2015 and 2023. Particularly in 2023, close to 200,000 case files were documented. Each of the more than 66,000 investigations conducted this year reportedly involved at least one child victim.
As this disturbing trend continues, the release of a school principal, who had been sentenced to 12 years in prison for sexual abuse, has sparked public outcry. CHP Women’s Branch President Aylin Nazlıaka criticized the policy of impunity being applied. Nazlıaka stated, “It’s time to change this situation,” emphasizing that the government has not put in sufficient efforts to protect children.
These recent incidents highlight the dangers faced by children in Turkey and the reasons behind the rising number of sexual abuse cases.