In a historic move against animal cruelty, the city of Paris has banned the use of wild animals in circuses. As part of the move, from 2020 onwards, permits for circuses that exhibit wild animals will be withheld.
Unfortunately, there is no ban across France on wild animals performing in circuses. However, the capital has moved forth in adopting this resolution, joining a majority of EU cities across the world.
“We can congratulate ourselves on this decision which marks a societal advance desired by all French people,” said Penelope Komites, a Paris councillor responsible for nature in the city. She added that she hoped that there will be a national ban implemented soon.
The issue of the ban came to the fore recently when Mischa, a performing bear, died in an animal rehabilitation and refuge centre in Paris. According to reports, its death was caused due to years of ill-treatment and abuse that it suffered at the hands of its owners from whom it was rescued two months ago.
Reports have suggested that a majority of public in Paris are advocating this ban. Also, animal rights groups such as PETA France have been campaigning for such an initiative for many years now.
While around 40 nations across the world have either partial or total bans on wild animals performing in circuses, a total of 12 nation in western Europe have implemented similar bans.
We certainly believe that this is a much-needed move to prevent cruelty to animals. Do you agree? Do let us know your views in the comments section below.
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