Urgent: Turkey’s New Law Sparks Global Outcry Over Mass Killings of Street Animals
The move has ignited a worldwide protest set to take place on June 21, coinciding with similar actions in Germany and
other European cities.
A groundbreaking yet controversial law enacted in May 2024 by the AKP under President Erdoğan, and ratified by Turkey’s Constitutional
Court in 2025, has set the stage for a dramatic escalation in the treatment of street animals in Turkey. The legislation aims to legitimize
the mass killing of stray dogs and cats, an action that has been condemned globally as a “genocide of street animals.”
Turkey Faces International Criticism
Animal welfare organizations and activists worldwide have been outspoken about the law, labeling it a systematic, state-sanctioned
annihilation. The law enables the collect and kill approach to handle these animals, often under hazardous conditions. Many documented
cases of brutal violence, shootings, and poisonings have surfaced since the law’s implementation, leading to growing concerns about
animal cruelty and a lack of humane treatment.
Plight of Turkish Street Animals
Estimates suggest over 4 million street animals inhabit Turkish streets, many long-standing members of urban communities living peacefully alongside
people. The law’s repercussions have been amplified by increased police repression and public defamation against those working to aid the
animals, creating a risky environment for animal rights activists and their efforts.
Global Response: Demonstrations Set Across Europe
The demo on June 21 in Vienna will serve as a public stand against the killing and a call for immediate animal protection and castration
programs.voi
“We are loud – for the street animals that have no voice, and for the people who help them every day with courage and compassion,” said Anne
Eck, animal rights activist and co-organizer.
Animal Eden e. V., an organization active in Turkey for over a decade, has been on the frontline reporting daily cries for help from
Turkish activists. “We are deeply shocked by the brutality,” stated the organization’s spokesperson.
Morocco’s Plight: World Cup 2030 Concerns
Morocco is also facing severe criticism with reports suggesting that up to 3 million dogs and cats could be killed in the lead-up to the 2030 World Cup.
While the country promised a castration program, it has now resorted to cruel methods such as poisoning and shootings. FIFA’s silence on the
matter has drawn strong condemnation.
How You Can Help
The upcoming demonstrations in Vienna, Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne, Nuremberg, Stuttgart, and Düsseldorf aim to raise awareness and pressure authorities
into adopting humane measures. For those who cannot participate, donations are crucial. Animal Eden e. V., for instance, runs lifestyle
centers in Turkey, supporting over 500 animals.
“Together we become visible – for animals, for life, for compassion, and for solidarity,” concluded Eck.
Stay tuned to Archyde for real-time updates, in-depth analysis, and user-friendly content designed to inform
and engage our audience on the most pressing issues of today.
