Mexico City ushers in new era with bullfighting ban
The time has come for significant changes. Mexico City has banned brutal bullfights and the use of sharp tools by matadors. The decision, passed by a vote of 61 to 1, has met with mixed reactions.
Mexico City has banned the organization of brutal bullfights and the use of sharp objects by the leading bullfighting matadors. The new regulations also introduce a 15-minute time limit for the duration of bullfights in the arena.
Responses to the new regulations
The changes brought joy among animal rights activists but also outrage from industry representatives. Politician Clara Brugada emphasized that the new law aims to make bullfighting rules more humane. Mexico's president, Claudia Sheinbaum, also supported the initiative, noting that it will help retain jobs in the industry while preventing animal abuse.
However, the new regulations sparked protests from bullfighting enthusiasts who consider bullfights an essential part of Mexico's culture. Scuffles broke out between protesters for and against near the town hall. Director of Humane World for Animals Mexico, Anton Aguilar, described the new law as a significant step towards eliminating the suffering and killing of animals for entertainment. He noted, however, that despite the lack of bloodshed, animals will still be exposed to stress.
Bullfighting in Mexico
Supporters of bullfighting emphasize its significance to the city's economy. In 2023, this industry created 80,000 jobs and generated revenue of about 540 million Canadian dollars. Mexico City is home to Plaza de Toros, the largest arena in the world, capable of accommodating over 41,000 spectators.
Bullfighting is already banned in several of Mexico's 32 states, and by 2027, the ban will cover all of Colombia. Nevertheless, these events still occur in Ecuador, France, Peru, Portugal, Spain, and Venezuela. According to animal rights organizations, around 180,000 bulls die each year in such fights worldwide.
