Italian animal-rights groups rally against circus animals and cage farming

In Rimini, the coalition Rimini in Comune denounced the municipal approval of Circo Orfei, calling for an immediate halt to animal exploitation. The group cited a 2012 council resolution that opposed hosting animal circuses, criticized the choice of venue, and raised concerns about animal welfare and environmental impact. The protest followed a demonstration organized by the No Circo with Animals coordination.

In Rome, the End the Cage Age coalition organized a demonstration near the EU Commission representation to urge the European Commission to deliver on its 2021 pledge to propose bans on cage farming for chickens by 2026 and for hens by 2027. Participants, including NGOs such as Compassion in World Farming, Legambiente, and Senator Stefano Patuanelli, delivered a symbolic petition and highlighted the EU Livestock Strategy’s commitment, emphasizing the impact on over 160 million animals annually.