AKP Seeks Opposition Cooperation for Stray Animal Regulation

The AKP (Justice and Development Party) in Turkey is working on a regulation concerning stray animals, which includes the controversial measure of euthanasia. After facing intense criticism, the party is now seeking a collaborative solution with opposition parties.

The government had planned to present a regulation to the Parliament that includes euthanizing stray animals. However, this plan has mobilized both animal rights activists and the opposition. CHP (Republican People’s Party) leader Özgür Özel stated, “We will sit and agree with the parties, but it is impossible for us to agree on euthanasia.”

According to TRT, the AKP will listen to the opposition’s demands this week to find a common solution. AKP Deputy Chairman Bahadır Yenişehirlioğlu will lead the parliamentary efforts. Views from NGOs and universities will also be considered. After collecting all the data, a proposal will be drafted, aiming to pass it before Parliament closes.

What Does the Proposal Include?

TRT reports that the regulation aims to ensure stray dogs live in healthier environments. The regulation will support and encourage adoption. It will also increase the number of shelters and modernize existing ones to make them sustainable. Stray dogs will be neutered, chipped, and provided with care and treatment in these shelters.

Notably, TRT did not mention the euthanasia plan while reporting on the proposal’s content.