Victory! Romania Bans the Use of Wild Animals in Circuses

Great news for wild animals! Romania has joined several countries and major cities around the world in banning the use of wild animals in circuses.

This major change was ignited after a fire in a building owned by Globus Circus in Bucharest killed eleven animals, including two tigers. Animal advocates and the general public were outraged, and over 60,000 people signed a petition demanding a ban on the use of wild animals for entertainment purposes.

This public pressure led to the Romanian Parliament banning the use of wild animals in circuses, including animals that are born in captivity and considered “tame.”  Those found in violation of this new law will face criminal charges and a year in prison. Circuses have eighteen months to comply with this law and retire the animals to reputable animal reserves.

Although this new legislation permits the use of some animals in performances like dolphins and exotic birds, this is a major step in the right direction. In regards to this new law, director of WWF Romania, Magor Csibi, stated, “No tiger, lion, bear or elephant will suffer any more in Romania for the amusement of people…Our society is evolving.”

The world is becoming increasingly more aware of the suffering, abuse, and neglect that circus animals endure, and for circus owners around the globe to continue using animals and ignore public opinion is not only inhumane but will certainly affect their ticket sales negatively.

Please share this story with your friends and family as a reminder why wild animals belong in the wild, not in a cage or arena to be exploited for our “entertainment.” As the people of Romania have shown, public opinion can help ignite serious change, and your voice has the power to save animals. Only once people stop paying to see animals perform will all circuses be forced to retire the animals, so please remember to never Support circuses, marine parks, and other attractions that use animals!

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