Animal Rights Protesters Rally in Northern Cyprus

On Monday, January 20, animal rights activists and pet owners gathered in front of the TRNC Parliament building to protest, urging the public to support a resolution on animal rights.

The demonstration was organized by the animal welfare association “Golden Paws.” The protestors are expressing their frustration that the proposed bill, which would introduce criminal penalties under the Animal Protection Law, has yet to be enacted.

Among the protesters, a group accompanied by their pets voiced their opposition to the removal of a clause banning cockfighting from the draft legislation.

Earlier, the TRNC General Assembly rejected a proposal to increase penalties for organizing or conducting cockfights. Independent MP Hasan Tosunoglu maintains that cockfighting is a long-standing part of Cypriot culture.