A Significant Legislative Step for the Welfare of Carriage Horses
- Ippothesis
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
In recent years, the use of equines in carriages continues to constitute a complex and often problematic issue, particularly in tourist areas. The lack of uniform rules, insufficient inspections, and the absence of substantive prerequisites have resulted in the exposure of animals to conditions that did not ensure their welfare.
The Non-Profit Organization “A Promise to Animals” https://www.apromisetoanimals.org/ell/ and the Panhellenic Equine Welfare Association “Ippothesis” have for some time systematically highlighted these problems.
Through contacts with the Ministry, the submission of proposals, and public interventions, our aim was the formation of a clear and binding framework that would protect equines and put an end to arbitrariness.
The recent decision of the Minister of the Interior constitutes a substantial step in this direction. Government Gazette FEK B’ 6947/22.12.2025.
For the first time, carriage movement licenses acquire a specific duration and are not transferable. Mandatory inspections are established by the Municipal Police, the Traffic Police, and the Veterinary Services, a unified licensing fee, and an obligation for municipalities to designate parking and waiting areas.
At the same time, critical regulations for the welfare of equines are introduced.
Their electronic identification becomes mandatory, age limits are set, the declaration of a suitable stabling area is required, and their work under extreme temperatures is prohibited. Of particular importance is also the exclusion from licensing of those who have been convicted or are being prosecuted for animal abuse, as well as the mandatory insurance of the vehicles. All these regulations, prerequisites, and requirements must now be observed and controlled by the municipalities, which are responsible for issuing the licenses.
This decision does not constitute the end of the journey. It does not address all the pathologies of the system, and its effectiveness will be judged by implementation and inspections in practice.
However, it constitutes a very positive beginning and a clear message that the protection of animals can and must be incorporated into public policy.
We recognize the importance of the Ministry’s initiative and the willingness for cooperation that existed.
On our part, on the one hand we expect the immediate and full compliance of all those involved with the new regulations, and on the other hand we will continue to monitor the implementation of the decision, submit proposals for improvement, and claim a framework that will genuinely ensure respect for and the welfare of equines.
#SavEquines #LoveAllAnimals #StopAnimalCruelty #equine_protection_law #Νόμος_τώρα #apromisetoanimals
