Colombia Bans Bullfighting, Activists Hope for Global Change

In a significant move, Colombia has officially banned bullfighting, a decision that lawmakers hope will encourage similar actions in other countries where the practice remains legal, such as Ecuador, Venezuela, Peru, and Mexico. The ban was passed with overwhelming support in Congress, marking a pivotal moment for animal rights activists who have campaigned against the tradition for decades. Terry Hurtado, a prominent figure in Colombia's animal rights movement since the 1990s, has been instrumental in advocating for the ban. Activists argue that bullfighting subjects animals to unnecessary suffering, as bulls are bred for aggression and often endure a painful death in front of cheering crowds. This perspective frames the practice as a form of public torture, igniting passionate debates about animal welfare. However, the ban has faced fierce opposition from bullfighting enthusiasts, including Gonzalo Santamaria, who represents a family legacy of bull breeding. Santamaria contends that the legislation threatens not only Colombia's cultural heritage but also the livelihoods of thousands who depend on the bullfighting industry. He expresses concern over lawmakers' willingness to eliminate traditional practices and the jobs associated with them, framing the issue as a matter of personal freedom. As Colombia moves forward with this ban, the future of bullfighting in the region remains uncertain, with advocates on both sides preparing for a continued struggle over the tradition's place in society.