Published 15/06/2021

Thousands of people across the globe took part in the sixth annual Ban Live Exports: International Awareness Day, yesterday (14^th June), to highlight the suffering of millions of animals forced to endure long distance transportation every year.

Digital demands

The day of action, which was held virtually for the second year in a row due to COVID-19 restrictions on public gatherings, received an overwhelming show of support in at least 40 countries: over 150 NGOs joined the Twitterstorm to raise awareness about this awful trade, and tweets containing the hashtag #BanLiveExports received more than 62 million views.

Activists also signed a petition requesting a ban on the export of live animals outside the EU, long-distance journeys over eight hours and the transport of live animals on ships. The petition, which will be submitted to the European Commission at the end of the year, collected more than 53,000 signatures within 24 hours of launching.

Patrons and High Profile Supporters made their voices heard too: In the UK, veterinarian and TV presenter James Greenwood took part in an Instagram story Q&A, answering supporters’ questions and shedding light on the atrocities of the trade.

New Zealand and the UK lead the way

“In the wake of recent live exports tragedies, including the disaster on the Suez Canal, which saw hundreds of thousands of animals stranded in awful conditions, it has become clearer than ever that this practice is outdated, unnecessary and incredibly cruel,” says Mandy Carter, Global Head of Campaigns for Compassion in World Farming.

“We are calling on the EU Commission to follow the great examples set by New Zealand and, more recently, the UK, and implement a ban on the export of live animals for fattening and slaughter.”

Please sign the petition to the European Commission and help us put an end to live exports.