Colombia's Constitutional Court Upholds Bullfighting Ban and Extends Prohibition to Cockfighting

On September 4, Colombia's Constitutional Court upheld a law that prohibits bullfighting, while also extending this ban to cockfighting, marking a significant advancement in animal rights within the country. This law, which was passed by Congress in May 2024 following extensive debates, reflects a shift in cultural values; President Gustavo Petro, upon enacting the legislation, voiced his belief that killing sentient beings for entertainment does not align with ethical standards.

The Constitutional Court's ruling came after it dismissed an appeal from advocates of bullfighting who contended that the ban infringed upon their rights to artistic expression. Although the court did not elaborate on its reasoning, it did announce that the prohibition on bullfighting would be implemented gradually, aiming for a total ban by 2027, while cockfighting, too, is slated for a complete ban by 2028.

Despite the court's ruling, supporters of these traditional activities, especially those involved in cockfighting, may consider appealing the decision. The Colombian Cockfighting Federation has strongly opposed the ban, indicating that approximately 290,000 families depend on cockfighting for their income, while the sport boasts about one million fans across the nation. The federation has urged lawmakers to reconsider the ban due to its perceived significance as a cultural custom.

Conversely, bullfighting has deep roots in Colombia, introduced during the colonial period, but has witnessed a decline in popularity as public sentiment increasingly favors animal protection. Presently, only a handful of countries continue to permit bullfighting, and many have implemented regional bans, reflecting a growing trend towards the protection of animal rights globally.