Circus animal ban: Growing societal empathy for animal welfare forcing circus’ to evolve

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• March 30, 2022

Insight summary

Rising awareness around animal welfare and a decline in public support for performing animals have led to bans and restrictions on the use of wild animals in circuses in several countries, including the US and EU member states. This shift has forced the entertainment industry to adapt, with circuses like Cirque du Soleil leading the way in developing alternative acts that emphasize human talent and creativity. The wider implications of this trend include new opportunities in performing arts, increased eco-tourism, changes in legislation, and a societal shift towards more responsible and thoughtful consumption of entertainment.

Circus animal ban context

Rising awareness around animal welfare and support for the humane treatment of animals has led to several countries banning the use of wild animals in traveling circuses and other types of live performances. Likewise, public support for performing animals has declined in recent years as people become more informed about the poor treatment experienced by circus animals. Animal welfare activists have long maintained that elephants, tigers, and other traditional circus animals are subjected to cruel treatment by their owners. As a result, several countries have implemented varying bans disallowing the use of animals in live entertainment performances.

France has announced a ban on wild animals in circuses, culling minks to produce fur clothing products, and banned the practice of keeping dolphins and orcas in captivity in marine parks. Most European Union (EU) member states have adopted legislation restricting the use of all or wild animals in circuses, reflecting the public’s demand for the ethical treatment of animals. An opinion poll of citizens in seven European countries found that 83 percent of respondents want the EU to ban the use of all wild animals in circuses.

In the US, 22 states restrict circus animal performances, but these performances are yet to be banned nationwide. Some prominent cities like Los Angeles also prohibit animal performances, public contact with animals, and elephant rides. Elsewhere in the US, there are local bans on traveling circuses and other exotic animal shows.

Disruptive impact 

The closure of several traveling shows and performance acts has led to a shift in the entertainment industry. People are no longer entertained by animals performing tricks, and this change in public sentiment has forced circuses to rethink their business models. The need to adapt to new forms of entertainment is not just a challenge but an opportunity for circuses to redefine themselves and connect with modern audiences.

Circuses that wish to survive commercially are finding ways to develop alternative acts or performances to replace the use of live animals. The world-famous Cirque du Soleil is a prime example of a highly successful circus that does not use any animals in its performances. By focusing on human artistry, creativity, and physical prowess, circuses can offer the public alternative experiences that resonate with contemporary values. This shift may lead to a resurgence in the popularity of circuses, as they align more closely with societal expectations and ethical considerations.

This trend reflects a growing awareness and concern for animal welfare, which may extend to other areas of entertainment, legislation, and public policy. Governments may need to consider new regulations that align with public sentiment, while companies in the entertainment sector can explore fresh, engaging alternatives that respect both ethical considerations and audience preferences. Ultimately, this trend underscores a societal shift towards more responsible and thoughtful consumption of entertainment.

Implications of circus animal bans

Wider implications of circus animal bans may include:

• The growing use of holographic technology to project performing animals in an arena, leading to a new era of animal-free entertainment that combines technology with traditional circus arts.
• Developing large-scale performances that focus on extraordinary human feats rather than animal tricks, leading to a reimagining of circus entertainment that emphasizes human talent and creativity.
• More opportunities for physically talented young people to develop their acrobatic and performing skills, leading to new career paths in the performing arts and participation in spectacular shows that travel the world.
• An increased demand for safari tours in developing countries from tourists interested in seeing live animals in their natural habitats, leading to a boost in eco-tourism and local economic development.
• The rise in animal welfare awareness, leading to potential changes in legislation that protect animal rights, not only in entertainment but also in other industries such as farming and research.
• The need for circuses to invest in new technologies and training for performers, leading to increased operational costs but also potentially attracting a new and more diverse audience.
• The potential decline in traditional circus culture and heritage, leading to a loss of historical art forms and practices that have been part of the industry for generations.
• The emphasis on human performance and technological advancements in circuses, leading to a greater focus on education and skill development in physical arts, technology, and design.
• The reduction in the use of live animals for entertainment, leading to a decrease in the environmental impact associated with their transport, care, and housing, contributing to more responsible and sustainable practices within the industry.

Questions to consider

• Should all interactions with wild animals for the purposes of entertainment be banned?
• Do you believe the circus industry will survive over the next 10 or 20 years?