News

Tuesday 28 March 2017

15:00-17:00

room ASP A1E201

European Parliament, Brussels

Over the last few years, hundreds of European municipalities and 18 EU Member States have adopted limitations for using wild animals in circuses on the ground of public security, animal health, conservation, ethics and welfare.

This trend is a reflection of the decreasing public support in using live animals, particularly non-domesticated species, for public entertainment. The conference will present an innovative Italian study on the socio-economic impact of banning the use of animals in circuses. During the event, an analysis of the consequences of using wild animals in circuses from a veterinary, ethologic and public security point of view will also be presented. In addition, opportunities for preserving the cultural value of the circus art without compromising animal welfare will be explored.

Watch livestream of the conference here

DRAFT AGENDA

Opening Speech by Marlene Mizzi MEP (S&D)

Conclusions of Study on Socio-Economic Impact of Proposed Italian Ban on Use of Animals in Circuses

Gaia Angelini, Campaigner for Wild Animals – LAV

Sergio Vistarini, Researcher – Censis Foundation

Cristiano Turchetti, Analyst – Censis Foundation

Opportunities for the Contemporary Circus in the Context of the Creative Europe EC Programme

Gloria Lorenzo Lerones, European Commission – DG Culture and Creativity, EAC.D2 Creative Europe

The Future of Circus Art

Stéphane Segreto-Aguilar, Coordinator – Circostrada

FVE Position on Use of Animals in Travelling Circuses

Nancy De Briyne, Deputy Executive Director – Federation of Veterinarians of Europe

EU Member States Choosing to Ban Use of Wild Animals in Circuses: Belgian Case

Michel Vandenbosch, President – GAIA

Why Europe Needs an EU-Wide Ban on the Use of Wild Animals in Circuses

Ilaria Di Silvestre, Programme Leader Wildlife – Eurogroup for Animals

Debate

 Closing Remarks by Marlene Mizzi MEP (S&D)