Italy could ban horse slaughter—but voter support is needed
Animal Equality filed a citizens’ initiative with Italy’s Court of Cassation in Rome, calling for a nationwide ban on the slaughter of horses and other equines like donkeys and mules.
The initiative was filed in partnership with the Islander Foundation and presented at a press conference at the Chamber of Deputies. Supporters in attendance included several members of Italian Parliament who back the initiative: Hon. Carmen Di Lauro, Hon. Rita Dalla Chiesa, Hon. Eleonora Evi, and Hon. Michaela Biancofiore.
A citizens’ initiative gives people in Italy the power to propose a new law. If 50,000 eligible Italian voters sign, Parliament must formally review our proposal to ban horse slaughter.
More than 5,000 people have already added their names. Those outside Italy can help by supporting Animal Equality’s work to reach more voters and advance initiatives like this.
“The next six months will be crucial to collecting the 50,000 signatures needed to mark a turning point for equines in Italy. This initiative can save thousands of horses, and other [animals], from the suffering of slaughter every year.”
Matteo Cupi, Executive Director of Animal Equality Italy
Horse meat consumption is declining in Italy
According to market research by Ipsos, among the 92% of Italians who eat meat, only 17% say they eat horse meat at least once a month. This number has been declining over the past year.
Of those surveyed, 73% say they feel empathy for horses, viewing them on par with dogs and cats. And yet in Italy, horses continue to be slaughtered, often under conditions that are far from transparent or even illegal:
Growing support for Italy’s horse slaughter ban
At the press conference, lawmakers from across the political spectrum spoke in support of the initiative.
“I’m glad to support this popular initiative, which represents a step forward for animal rights and toward moving beyond an anthropocentric view in favor of a biocentric culture.”
Marc Bekoff, Professor Emeritus of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Colorado Boulder and author of The Emotional Lives of Animals
“…The images of horses mistreated and exploited in illegal races and on farms leave me deeply shocked. These are animals that accompany us through our lives, and yet we see them humiliated on our plates. It’s unacceptable.”
Hon. Rita Dalla Chiesa
The filing of this initiative is an important step, one that opens a crack in a cruel system built on the exploitation and killing of animals for food.
Defend HORSES
Considered companions by many, horses are sensitive and intelligent animals who deserve protection.
Protect these beautiful animals by choosing plant‑based foods.
