Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Istanbul on Sunday to protest a new law that critics argue is leading to the widespread killing of stray dogs across Turkey. The legislation, passed last month, aims to remove millions of stray dogs from Turkish streets, citing public safety concerns. However, animal rights activists fear it will result in mass culling or overcrowded, disease-ridden shelters for the animals.
The law, backed by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has sparked outrage among animal lovers who argue that it threatens the lives of stray dogs, which they consider part of the community. Protesters carried banners with slogans like “shelters are death camps” and “withdraw the bloody law,” demanding an immediate repeal.
“We want this law to be withdrawn immediately,” said protester Hasan Kizilyatak, 64, emphasizing that stray dogs are living beings deserving of protection. Ayten Arslan, 55, a supporter of Erdogan, also joined the protest, declaring her opposition to the law despite her political allegiance. “Just like we stood beside our president on July 15 (2016) when there was a coup attempt, we are here for the stray animals,” she said.
The legislation has also faced legal challenges, with the main opposition Republican People’s Party filing a motion to repeal the law in the Constitutional Court shortly after its passage. The government estimates that around 4 million stray dogs roam Turkey’s streets, with several incidents of attacks reported, leading to the law’s introduction.
The new law requires municipalities to collect stray dogs, vaccinate, neuter, and spay them before making them available for adoption. However, dogs that are terminally ill, in pain, or pose a health risk to humans will be euthanized. Concerns have been raised about the financial burden on municipalities to build and maintain adequate shelters, leading to fears that some may resort to killing dogs under the guise of illness.
Videos circulating on social media have shown dead cats and dogs being buried in ditches, further fueling fears of indiscriminate killings. Animal rights activists continue to rally against the law, calling for its repeal and for the protection of Turkey’s stray animals.
