Colombia passes wild animal circus ban!
An Animal Rights Article from All-Creatures.org

FROM

Animal Defenders International (ADI)
June 2013

The investigation and Stop Circus Suffering South America was launched in Colombia in 2007 and the images were some of the most sickening ADI investigators have ever seen. Since then, we have secured bans in Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru and Paraguay.

After a 6-year campaign by ADI, the Colombian Congress has today passed legislation to prohibit the use of wild animals in circuses – in both static and traveling circuses. Colombia is the fifth country in South America to legislate against animals in circuses following the launch of our Stop Circus Suffering campaign.

Bill 244, 2012 prohibits the use of wild animals, whether native or exotic, in fixed and traveling circuses in Colombia. The Bill originally sought to prohibit all animals in traveling circuses and this successfully passed in Colombia’s House of Representatives but sadly, domestic species were excluded in the final Senate discussions – despite extensive evidence of deprivation and brutality towards these animals. The circus industry has two years to comply with the new law.

ADI led the successful Stop Circus Suffering campaign with investigations, scientific, economic and legal evidence, education and awareness-raising days.

The campaign was launched after ADI investigators worked undercover in South American circuses for two years filming, photographing and taking notes on the deprived environments, small cages, psychological suffering and the violent and brutal treatment of animals. The evidence shocked the continent, and governments in South America have been swift to take action to show that such treatment of animals is unacceptable in civilized society.

The investigation and Stop Circus Suffering South America was launched in Colombia in 2007 and the images were some of the most sickening ADI investigators have ever seen. Since then, we have secured bans in Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru and Paraguay.

ADI stands ready to assist with rescue and relocation of the animals, whenever the Government of Colombia requires assistance. After this momentous decision, it is important that these animals are allowed to live out their days, free from the circus and the suffering they have endured.

We owe it to these animals, and all those still to come, to continue this fight. We must never be deterred, never give up and never give in. These animals will die in pain and misery unless we make a stand and stop it.

These campaigns need bravery, determination and a fighting spirit, but they also need money.  

---

Return to Animal Rights Articles