From the donkeys of Santorini and Hydra—often turned into tourist attractions at the expense of their welfare—to illegal transport, abandoned animals in rural areas, and the lack of effective oversight, Greece has a long way to go when it comes to the protection and welfare of equines.
On May 8, we had the honor and privilege — as Hippothesis and A Promise to Animals — to host and present to the Equine Working Group of Eurogroup for Animals in Athens. During this important gathering, we shared the reality of the situation facing equines in Greece, alongside organizations from across Europe who are dedicated to their protection.
In our presentation, we highlighted three key issues that underline the urgent need for systemic change:
- The absence of a clear institutional framework which leaves ample room for violations without accountability.
- Lack of transparency and impunity, especially in tourist regions where animal exploitation often goes unpunished.
- The need for a national strategy for prevention, protection, and long-term equine welfare in Greece.
We also shared our joint initiatives aimed at promoting equine welfare, including:
- Public awareness campaigns carried out in collaboration with local communities and professional bodies.
- Advocacy efforts to strengthen enforcement and ensure the existing legislation is properly implemented.
- Rescue operations in cases of abandonment, abuse, or unsuitable living conditions.
Equine welfare is not a secondary issue. It is a matter of justice a reflection of our culture and a test of our commitment to the rule of Law.
As long as the voices of these animals remain unheard, it is our duty to amplify them — through facts, alliances, political pressure, and sustained action.Because how we treat our equines — silent victims of neglect and exploitation — speaks volumes about who we are as a society.
On May 8, we had the honor and privilege — as Hippothesis and A Promise to Animals — to host and present to the Equine Working Group of Eurogroup for Animals in Athens. During this important gathering, we shared the reality of the situation facing equines in Greece, alongside organizations from across Europe who are dedicated to their protection.
In our presentation, we highlighted three key issues that underline the urgent need for systemic change:
- The absence of a clear institutional framework which leaves ample room for violations without accountability.
- Lack of transparency and impunity, especially in tourist regions where animal exploitation often goes unpunished.
- The need for a national strategy for prevention, protection, and long-term equine welfare in Greece.
We also shared our joint initiatives aimed at promoting equine welfare, including:
- Public awareness campaigns carried out in collaboration with local communities and professional bodies.
- Advocacy efforts to strengthen enforcement and ensure the existing legislation is properly implemented.
- Rescue operations in cases of abandonment, abuse, or unsuitable living conditions.
Equine welfare is not a secondary issue. It is a matter of justice a reflection of our culture and a test of our commitment to the rule of Law.
As long as the voices of these animals remain unheard, it is our duty to amplify them — through facts, alliances, political pressure, and sustained action.Because how we treat our equines — silent victims of neglect and exploitation — speaks volumes about who we are as a society.