Santorini: Donkey handlers attack PETA activists

Three PETA Germany activists were physically and verbally attacked by donkey handlers in Santorini, Greece, while preparing a protest against the use of donkeys and mules as tourist transport. The incident occurred on the Karavolades steps, where animals are traditionally used to carry tourists up 500 stairs from the old port to Fira.

According to PETA, the handlers destroyed the activists' protest banners, insulted them, and used physical force, including pushing them against walls and striking one woman in the face. The activists were attempting to demonstrate an alternative to animal transport by using robotic exoskeletons to climb the stairs.

PETA has announced intentions to pursue legal action against the handlers and is calling for the Greek government and the Municipality of Thira to ban “donkey taxis.” The organization has offered to financially support the purchase of exoskeleton technology for the municipality if the use of animals for tourist transport is terminated.