Peruvian Politicians Recognise Bullfighting as a Protected Cultural Manifestation

Peruvian politicians have approved bills recognizing bullfighting and cockfighting as protected cultural manifestations. This decision comes in response to national and international anti-bullfighting movements, possibly influenced by Colombia's recent ban on bullfighting. The purpose of the ruling is to safeguard and promote these activities within the framework of cultural rights, making it more difficult to ban them based on animal suffering. The approved text instructs relevant ministries to implement and update cultural registries and to strengthen tourism activities related to bullfighting and cockfighting in Peru.

Peru is one of nine countries where bullfighting remains legal, with the others being Spain, Portugal, France, Venezuela, Mexico, and the United States. However, Colombia recently banned bullfighting, with the ban set to be enforced within two years. This recognition of bullfighting as a cultural manifestation aims to protect and promote these traditions in Peru, despite growing opposition from animal rights activists.