An important step forward for animal protection has recently been announced in Italy: the historic Circo Orfei has decided to end the use of animals in its performances after decades of shows involving wildlife.
The decision reflects a broader cultural shift and growing awareness about the welfare of animals used for entertainment. For many years, animal protection organizations have raised concerns about the conditions in which animals are kept in travelling circuses, where they are often confined in small spaces, transported frequently, and forced to perform behaviours that are unnatural for their species.
For OIPA ETS, which has long campaigned against the use of animals in circuses, this announcement represents an important and symbolic victory. For decades, the organization has worked to raise public awareness about the suffering endured by animals used in circus performances and has advocated for legislation that would put an end to their exploitation for entertainment purposes.
Wild animals such as lions, tigers and elephants have complex physical and behavioural needs that cannot be met in circus environments. The constant transport, limited space and forced performances can lead to chronic stress, behavioural disorders and serious welfare concerns.
A crucial aspect of this transition concerns the future of the animals currently held by circuses. These animals cannot simply be released into the wild, as many of them were born or raised in captivity and do not possess the survival skills necessary to live independently in their natural habitats. For this reason, the most responsible solution is their relocation to specialised sanctuaries or protected facilities where they can live in environments better suited to their biological and behavioural needs.
The decision by the Orfei circus reflects a growing transformation within the entertainment industry. Across Europe and other parts of the world, many circuses have already moved toward performances that rely entirely on human talent, including acrobatics, theatre and artistic expression.
For OIPA, this development represents an encouraging signal that public awareness and advocacy efforts are contributing to an important cultural change.
Ending the use of animals in circus performances is a crucial step toward ensuring that wildlife is no longer exploited for entertainment and that animals are recognised as sentient beings deserving of respect, protection and dignity.
