Mexico City bans violent bullfighting amid divisive protests

In Mexico City, lawmakers voted overwhelmingly on a Tuesday to ban violent bullfighting, a decision that has sparked both outrage among supporters and celebration from animal rights advocates. The legislation, which passed with a 61-1 vote, prohibits not only the killing of bulls but also the use of sharp objects that might injure these animals. Additionally, it enforces time limits on how long bulls can remain in the ring under the initiative known as 'bullfighting without violence.' This initiative aims to preserve traditional aspects of bullfighting while eliminating its more violent elements. The decision has led to protests by matadors and bullfighting aficionados, some of whom attempted to breach police barricades outside the local Congress. Supporters of bullfighting expressed their frustration, insisting that enjoying this cultural event is a source of pride and should not be criminalized. Activists celebrating the decision say it marks a significant step towards reducing animal cruelty in the city, with Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada calling it a moment that signals respect for animal rights. Bullfighting has been a longstanding tradition in Mexico, drawing large crowds to arenas across the country. However, it has faced increasing criticism over animal cruelty, especially since bulls are often killed at the end of the fights. Reports indicate that approximately 180,000 bulls are killed annually in bullfighting events worldwide. The recent official ban follows a previous ruling in June 2022, where a judge mandated the cessation of such practices, citing the residents' rights to a healthy and violence-free environment. This earlier ruling effectively shut down what was touted as one of the largest bullfighting rings in the world. Nevertheless, following the backlash against the ban, Mexico’s Supreme Court overturned the decision in 2023, reinstating traditional bullfighting events. Supporters of this genre of entertainment have argued that the bullfighting industry provides significant economic benefits, including 80,000 direct jobs and around 146,000 indirect jobs, contributing approximately $400 million annually to the economy. While lawmakers acknowledged the potential for economic impact on families involved in the industry, they stressed the importance of prioritizing animal welfare over tradition. As the debate continues, the city finds itself at a crossroads, balancing cultural traditions against evolving views on animal rights.