Global Animal Rights & Plant-Based News
This page highlights animal rights and plant-based news from around the world, sharing key developments, victories, and urgent issues affecting animals today.
Animal Rights News Around the Globe
Mexico City Restricts Violent Bullfighting Practice.
Mexico City lawmakers approved reforms banning the killing of bulls and the use of swords and sharp weapons in bullfights. Animal advocates called it a major step away from cruelty-based entertainment.
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South Korea Moves to End Dog Meat Industry by 2027
South Korea passed landmark legislation to ban the breeding, slaughter, and sale of dogs for meat by 2027. Advocates called it one of the most significant animal protection victories in Asia.
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Chile Bans Animal Testing for Cosmetics
Chile approved a ban on cosmetic animal testing and the sale of newly animal-tested cosmetic products. Campaigners say the law reflects growing demand for cruelty-free beauty standards in Latin America.
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Colombia Bans Bullfighting Nationwide
Colombia voted to phase out bullfighting nationwide, ending one of the region’s most controversial animal spectacles. Animal advocates celebrated the move as a historic cultural shift.
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U.S. Federal Bill Reintroduced to Ban Animal Testing
Lawmakers in the United States reintroduced legislation aimed at phasing out animal testing in federal research and encouraging modern non-animal alternatives. Supporters say science can advance without cruelty.
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Turkey Strengthens Protections for Street Animals Amid Global Debate
Animal welfare remains a major national issue in Turkey, where advocates continue pushing for humane solutions that protect the country’s beloved street dogs and cats. International attention has increased pressure for compassionate reforms.
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European Union Advances Fur Farming Ban Proposal
The European Union continues reviewing proposals for a region-wide ban on fur farming after growing public support and a successful citizens’ initiative. Advocates say momentum is building for stronger protections across Europe.
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Brazil Cracks Down on Illegal Wildlife Trafficking
Brazilian authorities expanded enforcement efforts against illegal wildlife trafficking, rescuing animals and targeting criminal networks that profit from exploitation. Conservation groups praised the increased protections for native species.
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New Zealand Expands Live Animal Export Protections
New Zealand continues strengthening restrictions on live animal exports following years of welfare concerns over transport conditions. Advocates say the reforms help prevent suffering at sea.
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UK Drops Planned Foie Gras and Fur Import Bans
The UK government is reportedly backing away from promised bans on foie gras and fur imports while prioritizing EU trade talks. Animal protection groups have criticized the move as a major step backward for animal welfare.
New York City Foie Gras Ban Revived by Appeals Court
A New York appellate court has ruled that the city’s foie gras ban may be enforced again. Animal advocates see it as a major win against the force-feeding of ducks and geese for luxury food production.
California’s Octopus Farming Ban Remains in Effect
California’s ban on octopus farming and the sale of farmed octopus remains in force, adding momentum to broader efforts against commercial octopus farming.
Jakarta Bans the Sale of Dog, Cat, and Bat Meat
Jakarta has banned the sale and consumption of dog, cat, and bat meat under a new regulation aimed at public health and animal protection. Advocates have called it an important milestone in efforts to end the dog and cat meat trade in Indonesia.
Mexico Introduces Bill to Ban Octopus Farming
Mexico has introduced a bill that would ban octopus farming nationwide, citing high mortality rates and animal welfare concerns. The proposal follows growing scrutiny of commercial octopus farming practices and their ethical impact.
New Scientific Opinion Adds Pressure to End Fur Farming in the EU
A new EFSA scientific opinion concluded that current cage-based fur farming systems cannot meet the welfare needs of animals such as mink, foxes, raccoon dogs, and chinchillas. Animal protection groups are calling it a major turning point in the push to end fur farming across Europe.
German Mayors Call for Night-Time Robot Lawn Mower Ban to Protect Hedgehogs
German mayors are calling for a nationwide ban on using robot lawn mowers at night to protect hedgehogs and other small nocturnal animals from being injured or killed. Growing concern over wildlife harm has increased pressure for stronger protections for small animals in urban and suburban areas.
UK Faces New Calls to Ban Greyhound Racing in England
Keir Starmer is facing renewed calls from MPs and animal welfare groups to ban greyhound racing in England. Campaigners argue that the sport is cruel and outdated, pointing to thousands of reported injuries and deaths over recent years and saying regulation is not enough.
UK Looks to Relax Planning Rules for Factory Farms
The UK government is reportedly considering changes to planning rules that would make it easier to build intensive livestock farms after industry lobbying. Critics warn the move could worsen animal suffering, pollution, and public health risks while making it harder for local communities to object.
UK Moves to Ban Trail Hunting
The UK government announced plans to ban trail hunting, a practice long criticized as a cover for illegal fox hunting. The move follows growing public pressure and could close a major loophole in existing animal protection laws.
Thailand Moves to End Monkey Labor in Coconut Industry
Thailand has taken steps to curb the use of captive monkeys in coconut harvesting after international scrutiny and animal welfare investigations. Major retailers and producers are now adopting stricter supply chain monitoring.
European Union Moves Toward Fur Farming Ban
The European Commission is reviewing proposals for an EU-wide ban on fur farming following a successful citizens’ initiative and growing public support for animal welfare reforms.
Spain Strengthens National Animal Welfare Law
Spain implemented sweeping animal protection legislation establishing stronger penalties for abuse, banning certain wildlife exploitation practices, and improving companion animal protections.
Australia Plans Phase-Out of Live Sheep Exports
Australia announced a plan to end live sheep exports by sea after years of animal welfare concerns related to transport conditions.
Brazil Expands Protected Areas in the Amazon
Brazil has created new conservation zones to protect endangered species and preserve critical rainforest ecosystems.
Canada Bans Cosmetic Animal Testing
Canada enacted legislation banning cosmetic testing on animals and prohibiting the sale of products tested on animals.
India Expands Humane Stray Animal Control Programs
India continues expanding nationwide sterilization and vaccination initiatives to humanely manage stray dog populations.
Japan Faces Growing Pressure Over Dolphin Captivity
Animal welfare organizations continue urging Japan to phase out dolphin captivity programs amid rising global concern.