Turkey's Controversial Stray Dog Law Sparks Nationwide Debate
Turkey's new law to regulate 4 million stray dogs has ignited protests and fears of mass culling. Animal rights activists oppose the measure, which requires rounding up strays and potentially euthanizing feral dogs.
In the summer of 2024, Turkey's parliament passed a controversial law aimed at regulating the country's estimated 4 million stray dogs. This legislation has sparked a nationwide debate, pitting animal rights activists against government officials and dividing public opinion.
The new law mandates that municipalities round up stray dogs and place them in shelters, with provisions for euthanizing feral animals. This has led to widespread concern among animal welfare advocates, who fear the possibility of mass culling. They have dubbed it the "massacre law," expressing deep apprehension about its potential consequences.
Recep Tayyip Erdogan's ruling party introduced the measure, citing concerns over dog attacks, traffic accidents, and disease outbreaks, including rabies. In June 2024, Erdogan addressed his party members, stating, "Do not compromise. God willing, we will finish this."
However, the law has met significant resistance. Some opposition mayors have declared they will not implement it, risking legal consequences. Animal rights activists argue that the killing of dogs may already be underway, citing disturbing incidents in Ankara and other areas.
"There is no way to stop these massacres unless they withdraw the law."
Turkey has a long-standing tradition of caring for street animals, dating back hundreds of years. In the late 19th century, Italian writer Edmondo de Amicis described Istanbul as "one huge dog-kennel," noting the Turks' love and protection of these animals.
Despite this cultural affinity, there have been previous attempts to control the stray dog population. In 1910, a particularly brutal effort saw over 80,000 dogs transported to Sivriada island and left to die. More recently, Turkey has made strides in animal protection, including a 2021 law that reclassified animals as "living things" rather than commodities.
The current situation highlights the ongoing challenges in managing stray animals. Out of 1,403 municipalities in Turkey, 1,100 lack animal shelters. The new law requires the construction or improvement of shelters by 2028, but critics argue this is insufficient to address the immediate concerns.
Protests against the law have erupted across the country. In June 2024, thousands gathered in Istanbul to voice their opposition. Many Turks, like Murat Cem Yetkin, who runs a dog shelter on the outskirts of Istanbul, continue to care for strays despite the new regulations.
As the debate rages on, Turkey finds itself at a crossroads between addressing public safety concerns and upholding its long-standing tradition of compassion towards street animals. The implementation and consequences of this law will likely shape the country's approach to animal welfare for years to come.
