Bolivia Bans Circus Animals

For years, animal-rights activists have been fighting to make people and governments aware of the horrific treatment of circus animals. Though kids and families may get pleasure from seeing animals perform various tricks, government officials in Bolivia finally recognize the use of animals in circuses as nothing more than an act of cruelty. In the world’s first ban on all animals—wild and domestic— in circuses, Bolivia is giving operators one year from July 1, 2009 to stop usage. Thanks to an undercover investigation by Animal Defenders International, the law was proposed and passed. Authorities will now be monitoring operators to ensure that they don’t eliminate the animals by killing them. Any violations or infractions will warrant a fine, and the authorities have the right to confiscate animals if need be. Perhaps Bolivia’s bold move will open the eyes of other bodies of government around the globe as well.