In the summer of 2023, Turkey faced a coordinated effort aimed at destabilizing its vital tourism sector. The situation was described by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan at a public event organized by the Turkish Exporters’ Assembly and the Ministry of Trade, with coverage reported by TRT News. The president stated that foreign powers launched a campaign to undermine tourism, highlighting the sector as a key source for renewing the nation’s budget and sustaining its economic resilience.
Erdoğan attributed the information campaign against Turkish tourism to political dynamics, noting that it followed opposition leader Kemal Kılıçdaroğlu’s remarks advocating sanctions against Russia. After these statements, a number of foreign media outlets purportedly raised concerns about travel safety in Turkey, citing geological risks such as earthquakes, along with environmental hazards like forest fires, and a sharp rise in holiday costs as factors deterring visitors.
The president also referenced a controversy surrounding the cancellation of the Turkish Super Cup match between Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe, which had been slated to take place in Saudi Arabia. He argued that the situation demonstrated attempts to generate a wave of doubt through sports events. In late December, authorities reportedly prevented players from entering the field wearing commemorative apparel featuring Mustafa Kemal Atatürk and symbols honoring the Republic’s centennial anniversary.
By early January, Turkish authorities detained dozens of individuals suspected of links to foreign intelligence services. The leadership has drawn parallels between the methods used in this information environment and historical attempts to shape public perception through targeted messaging.
These developments occurred against a backdrop of ongoing debates about national security, economic diversification, and the country’s sustained ambition to attract international travelers. Observers in Canada and the United States noted that Turkey remains a popular destination for travelers seeking rich cultural experiences, coastal getaways, and vibrant city life, with tourism continuing to play a central role in regional economic activity. Media outlets consistently advised travelers to monitor official travel advisories and stay informed about local conditions while planning trips. Attribution: TRT News and related Turkish government briefings, summarized for regional readers.