Turkey protests over privatization of public beaches

In several Turkish coastal towns, public beaches are being taken over by private operators who build terraces, bars and charge for sun‑beds, limiting free access required by law. Residents in Bodrum, Mersin and other resorts say they are being forced off the sand, with videos showing staff throwing sand at beachgoers' towels. Activist Nihat Koyuncu estimates that only about 300 m of a 1.5 km stretch in Bodrum remains publicly accessible. Prices for a sun‑bed can reach €28 per person, making a day at the beach unaffordable for many families amid high inflation. The Turkish Ministry of Culture announced plans to increase the number of public beaches to 23 this year, but locals claim municipalities often turn a blind eye to the encroachment.