Spain drafted a landmark law to ban the use of great apes in
entertainment, end harmful breeding and experiments, and guarantee
protections grounded in their capacity to suffer and flourish.

But the law has yet to pass.

Public pressure now can break the deadlock — and help ensure these
protections become reality.

[ [link removed] ] Sign the petition 

   
John,

Nearly 150 great apes remain confined in zoos, circuses, and laboratories
in Spain — exploited, distressed, and denied the conditions they need to
thrive. A new law could change that, but delays are putting lives and
well-being at risk.

In 2023, Spain drafted a landmark law – the first of its kind in the world
– to ban the use of great apes in entertainment, and end harmful breeding
and experiments, but it still hasn’t been passed. Public pressure now can
break the deadlock — and help ensure these protections become reality.

Let’s make clear to Spanish lawmakers that people everywhere expect urgent
action to protect great apes from harm.

[ [link removed] ]Add your name to protect great apes now

This law would be the first of its kind in the world. It would prohibit
great apes from being used for commercial shows and invasive research, and
require that those in captivity be relocated to appropriate sanctuaries or
naturalized spaces that support their well-being. The proposal aligns with
international conservation agreements — and affirms that living beings
deserve protection not because of how closely they resemble humans, but
because they have needs, experiences, and lives of their own.

Some claim that zoos or laboratories are necessary for education and
science. But credible research and conservation efforts do not require
subjecting animals to isolation or unnatural conditions. Ethical,
non-invasive alternatives already exist — and experts increasingly
recognize that meaningful protection means respecting the lives of animals
on their own terms.

Spain has a historic opportunity to lead by example and enshrine a more
just and compassionate approach to how we treat other species. Let’s
ensure this law becomes a turning point — not another broken promise.

[ [link removed] ]Spain: lead by example and protect the great apes

The Ekō community took part in important milestones for animal rights
around the globe. Together, Ekō members with our partners in Spain,
interrupted PescaNova’s plans and stopped the first octopus farm from
being opened. Public pressure is key to change - act now.



[ [link removed] ] Sign the petition 



Thanks for all that you do,
Vanessa, Nabil and the team at Ekō


More information:

[ [link removed] ]Spain set to give great apes ‘human’ rights
The Times 24 September 2024

[ [link removed] ]Spain seeks ground-breaking law for great apes
France24 29 October 2024

 

 

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