Mexico City Congress Prohibits Bullfights
Traditional bullfights in Mexico City are set to end as the city’s Congress has officially voted to prohibit the controversial sporting events. This marks a significant shift for the long-established practice.
Legislative Action Targets “Violent Bullfights”
The ban, declared on Tuesday, March 18th, specifically targets “violent bullfights.” According to a press release from Humane World for Animals Mexico, the measure introduces “new rules with immediate effect that ban the killing of bulls inside or outside the ring.”
Overwhelming Support for Bullfighting Prohibition
The legislative decision was not a narrow victory; it passed overwhelmingly with a 61-1 vote, demonstrating strong support for ending bullfights.
Key Provisions of the Ban
The enacted legislation prohibits:
- The “infliction of physical injury” on bulls.
- Stabbing animals with sharp implements such as swords or spears.
Furthermore, the ban ensures that animals involved in bullfights are no longer exempt from general animal protection laws. This grants bullfighting bulls in Mexico City comprehensive legal protection against mistreatment and fatalities.
Ring Time Limits for Bulls
Reports from the Associated Press indicate the ban also includes provisions to reduce the amount of time bulls are permitted in the ring during bullfighting events.
Animal Rights Advocates Hail the Decision
The move is being celebrated as a definitive triumph by animal rights campaigners. While acknowledging it is not a total eradication of bullfighting, Anton Aguilar, executive director of Humane World for Animals Mexico, considers it “an important step toward eradicating the torment and killing of animals for entertainment and a stronger commitment to compassion in our society.”
Humane World for Animals Mexico Statement
In a statement, Aguilar elaborated, “Bulls will no longer be subjected to the brutal cruelty of being repeatedly stabbed and ultimately killed in the ring, which is something we welcome. We welcome, too, the clear acknowledgment by the Mexico City government that traditional bullfights are inherently violent and socially unacceptable.”
Global Impact of Bullfighting
Humane World for Animals reports that “Every year, approximately 180,000 bulls are killed in bullfights around the world, with many more killed or injured in bull fiesta events.” The organization describes bullfighting as inflicting a “long, cruel death.”