WAV Archive Photos

17 May 2024

CAS

A survey conducted by CAS International shows that the majority of Spanish, French and Portuguese citizens are against bullfighting, and think the harmful tradition sees too much suffering to bulls.

Spain, France and Portugal are the only European countries that still allow bullfighting, including different patronal festivities with bulls and cows. 

7500 citizens were polled by Ipsos I&O Public on behalf of CAS International. Key finding included:

77% agreed that bullfighting causes too much suffering to bulls;

65% agreed that children under 18 should be prohibited from attending bullfights;

Only one in every five persons thought that bullfighting is a valuable tradition that should have a place in society;

58% favour a complete ban on bullfighting. 

It is clear that more and more people are becoming aware of the violence inflicted on bulls and people do not accept this anymore.

Maite van Gerwen, Director, CAS International

The European Union leaves the protection of animals that are used in cultural, traditional and religious events at the discretion of Member States. However, 74% of respondents agreed that the European Union should act to protect the welfare of animals in cultural traditions, and 67% did not agree with the use of national or EU subsidies to support bullfighting.

There are clear signs that interest in bullfighting is in a decline. In the past 20 years, the number of bullfights in France has decreased by 40%, and by 63% since 2007 in Spain. In Portugal, 166 bullfights were held in 2023, the lowest number ever recorded in the country.

Regards Mark