Hungary bans wild animal performances in circuses

circus animal ban animal welfare Hungarian regulation wildlife protection animal performance

The Hungarian government has issued a decree that will ban the use of most wild animals in circus performances. Citing ethical and animal welfare concerns, the regulation targets the acquisition, breeding, keeping, training, and presentation of various species in a circus setting.

The ban includes a wide range of animals, such as giraffes, hippopotamuses, bears, primates, and various wild cats and canines. However, domesticated species—including horses, donkeys, dogs, cats, pigs, and cattle—are exempt from these restrictions.

Under the new rules, circus troupes will be permitted to keep animals currently in their care until the end of the animals' lives, but they will be prohibited from using them in performances. The regulation is set to officially take effect on January 1, 2027.

Entities

Hungarian government · László Gajdos

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[○ 1 SOURCE] Circus troupes may keep existing animals until the end of their lives but cannot perform with them. hvg.hu
[● 2 SOURCES] Domesticated species such as horses, donkeys, dogs, cats, pigs, and cattle are exempt from the ban. 24.hu · hvg.hu
[● 2 SOURCES] The decree prohibits the acquisition, breeding, keeping, training, presentation, and performance of specific wild animals in circuses. 24.hu · hvg.hu
[● 2 SOURCES] The ban is based on ethical and animal welfare concerns. 24.hu · hvg.hu
[● 2 SOURCES] A new government decree has been published regarding circus animal management. 24.hu · hvg.hu
[○ 1 SOURCE] The regulation will come into effect on January 1, 2027. hvg.hu