Greek government takes decision to protect beaches in islands where Turks flock

In neighboring Greece, the public has taken action against the occupation of beaches by private businesses, achieving partial success. The government has announced a regulation that includes protection measures for 198 pristine coastal areas.

A movement that started against the occupation of beaches by private businesses in Greece last year has achieved success. The right-wing conservative New Democracy government in Greece has made a protection decision for 198 beaches across the country.

A FINE OF 60,000 EUROS FOR VIOLATORS

According to the plan, construction along with bar and restaurant occupation will be prevented on protected beaches. Measures will be taken to prevent private businesses from occupying beaches with sunbeds and umbrellas. Violators of the regulation will face fines of up to 60,000 euros.

Beaches covered by the regulation cannot be put up for commercial use through auctions, sunbed and umbrella rentals will not be allowed in these areas, and public events with more than 10 participants cannot be organized.

Last year, the country, which hosted 32 million foreign tourists, saw citizens start protests against the occupation of beaches by private businesses, with these protests being dubbed the “beach towel movement.”

MORE THAN 1000 BEACHES WERE ON THE INITIAL LIST

Critics of the regulation argue that both the number of protected beaches is insufficient and that the problem will not be solved. Greek Minister of Economy and Finance Kostis Hatzidakis stated that with this regulation, they aim to combine environmental protection with sustainable development, emphasizing that the environment is a valuable component of Greek tourism. The Greek minister promised strict rules, penalties, and obligations, while also pledging oversight and transparency.