Belgium Bans Dolphinariums: A Historic Victory for Animal Rights
The Belgian government has made a groundbreaking decision: the permanent ban of dolphinariums in the country. This measure makes Belgium the seventh country in the world and the fourth in Europe to enact legislation ending dolphin captivity. The initiative, led by Flemish Minister of Animal Welfare Ben Weyts, represents a significant step forward in recognizing dolphins as social, intelligent, and sensitive beings.
With this ban, the Boudewijn Seapark dolphinarium in Bruges, the last active facility in the country, must close by 2037 at the latest. However, Weyts has suggested that the closure could happen sooner. In the meantime, the facility is required to make immediate improvements to the living conditions of its seven resident dolphins, including building an outdoor pool by 2027. Additionally, breeding and importing new dolphins are prohibited, and the dolphinarium will be subject to regular inspections until its definitive closure.
30 Years of Advocacy for Dolphin Freedom
This decision culminates over three decades of work by organizations like GAIA, which has led campaigns to end cetacean captivity since the 1990s. This movement has been supported by renowned figures such as anthropologist Jane Goodall, UN Messenger of Peace, and Ric O’Barry, former trainer of the famous dolphin Flipper and a prominent activist against dolphin captivity.
Since 1999, GAIA has achieved significant milestones, including the closure of the Antwerp Zoo dolphinarium, and has consistently advocated for the end of dolphin captivity in hearings at the Flemish Parliament. This new measure represents the culmination of years of dedication and sends a clear message: “Dolphins, intelligent and sensitive creatures, should not suffer for our entertainment. Captivity belongs in the past,” says Sebastien De Jonge, GAIA’s Operations Director.
A Measure Aligned with Public Opinion
The ban on dolphinariums in Belgium reflects the will of its citizens. According to an Ipsos survey commissioned by GAIA in April 2024, 91% of Walloon and 85% of Brussels residents support this measure. With this decision, Belgium joins other countries such as India, Costa Rica, Chile, Croatia, Slovenia, and Cyprus, which have already prohibited dolphin captivity.
Sanctuaries as an Ethical Alternative
Once the Boudewijn Seapark closes permanently, the dolphins still in captivity must be transferred to specialized sanctuaries, such as the ongoing project on the Greek island of Lipsi, supported by GAIA. These sanctuaries provide a semi-natural environment that allows cetaceans to recover and live with dignity, without being exploited for public display.
Why Dolphins Don’t Belong in Dolphinariums
Dolphins are social and intelligent animals that require vast ocean spaces to swim freely and exhibit natural behaviors. In captivity, they are confined to spaces thousands of times smaller than their natural habitat, preventing them from exploring, socializing, and engaging in essential activities for their well-being.
In the wild, dolphins can swim up to 100 kilometers a day and dive to depths of 200 meters. In captivity, however, they often develop stereotypical behaviors caused by stress, lack of stimulation, and the inability to live as they would in freedom.
A Thought from the Associació Vegana de Catalunya
This ban is an inspiring example of how change is possible when society unites for a just cause. Zoos and dolphinariums are not spaces for education but rather places that perpetuate animal exploitation.
At the Associació Vegana de Catalunya, we encourage society to take responsibility and opt for ethical alternatives, such as visiting animal sanctuaries, where respect and connection with nature are fostered without causing suffering.
Belgium shows us the path toward a more compassionate future, where the freedom and well-being of animals are priorities. Let us be the drivers of change and move toward a society that recognizes animals as more than mere objects for our entertainment.
Learn and Act! Discover more on the website of GAIA i and Dolphgin Project
Join the movement to end animal captivity. 🌊