Colombia’s Congress has made a historic decision to ban bullfighting across the country starting in 2027, following a passionate campaign by animal rights activists who have long condemned the practice as cruel.
The tradition of bullfighting was brought to Colombia by the Spanish during colonial times and became a popular spectacle, drawing large crowds to bullrings in cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Manizales. However, the tide has turned against this controversial tradition, with President Gustavo Petro backing the ban as a step towards a more humane society.
While supporters of bullfighting have protested the decision, arguing that it will impact not only those who breed the bulls but also the vendors who rely on bullfighting events for their livelihood, the bill includes a three-year transition period to help those affected find alternative sources of income.
Under the new legislation, bullrings will be repurposed for cultural and sporting events, marking a significant shift in Colombia’s entertainment landscape. This move aligns Colombia with other Latin American countries like Argentina, Cuba, and Uruguay, which banned bullfighting over a century ago.
Despite the ban, bullfighting is still permitted in countries like Ecuador, Mexico, Peru, and Venezuela. Mexico City, for example, briefly banned bullfighting in 2022 only to see the ban overturned two years later, leading to a resurgence in the controversial practice.
In Europe, bullfights continue to be held in countries like France and Spain, although some cities have taken steps to outlaw the tradition. The global debate over bullfighting reflects a broader conversation about animal rights and cultural practices, with Colombia’s decision marking a significant milestone in the movement towards a more compassionate society.
