Egyptian NGO sues to ban use of wild animals in circuses

The Animal Protection Foundation has filed a lawsuit seeking to outlaw the use of wild animals in circus performances, local media report.

The group alleges that animals—particularly lions and tigers—are subjected to abuse, including beatings, starvation, and burning, to force them to perform. The lawsuit argues that authorities have failed to prevent such mistreatment, which it says violates both the Egyptian Constitution and Islamic law.

Specifically, the case cites Article 45 of the Constitution, which guarantees animal protection, and Article 2, which establishes Islamic Sharia as the primary source of law and emphasizes compassion toward living beings.

While many European countries have already banned the use of wild animals in performances, the practice remains legal at the federal level in the United States, though numerous states and cities have passed their own bans.

Egypt’s Administrative Court has referred the case to the Commissioners’ Department for review. A final ruling will be issued once the court examines the findings.