The Taranto City Council unanimously approved a motion intended – it is hoped – to create education well beyond local borders. The initiative, promoted by councilor Giandomenico Vitale, commits the Council to urge the Government to finally implement Delegation Law 106 of 2022, which provides for the definitive elimination of the use of animals in circuses and traveling shows. A clear political passage, supported by all the forces present in the chamber, which demonstrates how the issue of animal welfare is able to overcome ideological divisions today.
A law that already exists but is still suspended
The heart of the matter is precisely this: a rule already exists, but its concrete application has been postponed several times. The Taranto motion explicitly recalls the urgency of transforming the principle into reality, also underlining the reference to Article 9 of the Constitution, which protects animals. Not only that: the text highlights how the law also provides funds for the reconversion of the circus sector, supporting workers and businesses in the transition towards shows free of animal exploitation.
The role of municipalities and pressure from below
Although municipalities do not have the power to directly ban the use of animals in circuses, they can exert strong political pressure. This is precisely the strategy adopted by Taranto, which joins cities such as Rome, Milan and Genoa. At the same time, the administration is committed to promoting awareness campaigns and promoting alternative shows, aiming for cultural as well as regulatory change.
The commitment of the associations and the request to the Government
The comparison with LAV, which has been at the forefront against the use of animals in circuses for years, was decisive. According to the association, the choice of the City Council represents a further step in a process already started in many Italian and European realities. Now the attention shifts to the Minister of Culture, Alessandro Giuli, called to follow up on an increasingly broad and transversal political will.
A strong signal looking towards Europe
With over 50 countries having already adopted similar measures, Italy risks being left behind. Taranto’s motion, however, relaunches the issue forcefully, transforming itself into a clear signal: change is required not only by local institutions, but also by a growing part of public opinion.
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