Hungary to ban animal use in circuses starting in 2027

Hungary has announced a ban on the use of animals in circus performances, set to take effect in 2027. The measure aims to address long-standing concerns regarding the training, transportation, and exhibition conditions of various species.

To comply with the new regulations, circus operators must transition to alternative forms of entertainment that do not involve wild or domestic animals. This shift aligns with an international trend toward animal-free circuses that rely on acrobatics, technology, music, and lighting to provide entertainment. While animal rights organizations have welcomed the decision as a step forward for animal protection, the circus sector faces the challenge of restructuring its business models and performance styles.