Controversial Law to Round Up Strays Sparks Outcry in Turkey

Turkey's parliament passed a law to round up millions of stray dogs and place them in shelters, despite strong protests from animal rights activists and the main opposition party. The law, backed by President Erdogan's AK Party, has raised concerns about the potential euthanasia of numerous dogs.

Turkey's parliament has ratified a contentious law mandating the capture of millions of stray dogs and their relocation to shelters, amidst significant opposition from animal welfare advocates and the main opposition party, which has pledged to contest the legislation in court.

This legislation, formulated by President Tayyip Erdogan's ruling AK Party, has provoked intense public debate. Many citizens fear it will precipitate the euthanasia of a substantial number of dogs. Advocates for the law argue it addresses public safety concerns, including dog attacks, traffic incidents, and rabies.

Animal rights campaigners are calling for intensified neutering programs instead, while the opposition Republican People's Party plans to appeal against the law in the Constitutional Court. Community members actively care for street animals, a tradition that is under threat due to the new mandates.