Greece Bans Animal Circuses

Four days ago, Greece became the first European nation to ban the use of animals in its circuses, responding to pressure from animal-welfare groups Animal Defenders International and Greek Animal Welfare Fund. More than 50 local animal-protection agencies expressed their support for the campaign, which was launched in 2006 by ADI. The new law also mandates that it is henceforth forbidden to use animals in amusement parks, concerts, exhibitions, fairs, and festivals. In 2009, Bolivia became the first country in the world to ban circus animals. While Greece is the only country in Europe to take the measure, several other nations—including Austria, Portugal, Denmark, and Croatia—are currently working to implement similar bans.