Uzbekistan to Implement New Wildlife Protection Laws in Circuses
Tashkent, Uzbekistan - Starting January 1, 2025, Uzbekistan will enforce a comprehensive ban on the use of wild animals for entertainment purposes in circuses, as reported by nova24.uz. This legislative move aims to enhance animal welfare standards and aligns with global trends towards more ethical treatment of wildlife.
The new regulation will affect both state-run and traveling circuses across the country, prohibiting the use of animals such as lions, tigers, elephants, and bears in performances. Additionally, the law extends to private ownership, making it illegal for individuals to keep wild animals in captivity.
Under the new law, wild animals can only be housed in specialized facilities like zoos, terrariums, oceanariums, and serpentariums, which must be operated by legal entities and require explicit permission from the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change.
This decision comes after years of advocacy from animal rights groups who have highlighted the often harsh conditions these animals endure in circus environments. The ban is part of a broader initiative by the Uzbek government to improve environmental protection and promote more humane treatment of animals.
The Ministry of Ecology has emphasized that this move is not only about animal welfare but also about preserving biodiversity and ensuring that wild animals are not subjected to conditions that could lead to stress, injury, or unnatural behaviors.
Circus operators have until the end of 2024 to comply with the new regulations, which includes finding alternative entertainment methods or retiring their animal acts. The government has promised support in transitioning to non-animal based performances, offering training and resources to circus staff.
This legislative change marks a significant step in Uzbekistan's commitment to environmental and animal welfare, reflecting a growing consciousness about the ethical treatment of wildlife in entertainment industries.