Palma protesters demand end to horse-drawn carriages

Approximately 40 protesters gathered in central Palma this Saturday to demand the end of horse-drawn carriages in the city. Organized by animal rights platforms including Anima Naturalis, Peta, Satya Animal, FFW, and Progrés en Verd, the demonstration sought to pressure the Palma City Council to accelerate the transition from animal traction to electric vehicles.

Activists are calling for a binding deadline and a formal rescue plan for horses retired from service. While an agreement was signed in March to replace animal carriages with electric ones, protesters argue the pact lacks a specific timeline and enforcement measures for non-compliance.

The movement follows recent tension regarding animal welfare, including a legal setback where the High Court of Justice of the Balearic Islands overturned a municipal regulation that would have restricted horse carriage use during extreme heat. Protesters stated they intend to continue weekly demonstrations to increase pressure on both the local government and the carriage sector.