French lawmakers lock horns over bullfighting ban for children
The French parliament is debating a bill that would ban children under 16 from attending bullfights. While it is likely to face rejection, the proposal has already ignited strong reactions – especially among fans of the centuries-old tradition.
The bill, introduced by Samantha Cazebonne, a former MP representing French citizens in Spain and Portugal, has reopened deep divisions between animal rights activists and defenders of local culture.
It will be voted on by senators on Friday.
In regions where bullfighting remains a core tradition – like the southern cities of Bayonne, Nîmes and Béziers – where it is recognised as part of the cultural landscape, debate has been especially fierce.
The Union of French Bullfighting Cities (UVTF), has vigorously opposed the bill, calling it an "unprecedented attack" on bullfighting.
Animal rights groups, on the other hand, see it as an opportunity to raise awareness about what they argue is the damaging impact of bullfights on children. The Protec collective (Protect Children from Bullfights) has already gathered over 40,000 signatures in support of the bill.
One hundred mayors recently published a petition in Midi Libre, a regional newspaper, warning that exposing children to bullfights "introduces them to the practice of a crime".
Cazebonne remains determined to push the bill forward.
"Why should we be the last to protect our children?"
(with newswires)
Read more on RFI English
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