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Istanbul, often referred to as "the city of cats," is renowned for its abundant and well-cared-for stray cat population. These feline inhabitants are not just seen as strays but as an essential part of the city's cultural fabric and daily life. Cats are omnipresent in Istanbul, lounging in cafes, shops, parks, and even historic sites, symbolizing a unique symbiosis between humans and animals that has become a defining feature of the city.

A Centuries-Old Bond

The deep bond between Istanbulites and their feline companions dates back centuries, with historical records and folklore celebrating their presence. Cats in Istanbul are more than pets; they are community members. Residents take pride in feeding and caring for these animals, often setting up feeding stations and leaving bowls of food and water outside their homes and businesses. This communal care has fostered an environment where cats can thrive, and they have become an integral part of the city's charm.

Community Care as Tradition

Local businesses and households often adopt stray cats informally, providing them with names and regular care. This practice has created a network of unofficial caretakers who ensure that the cats are well-fed and healthy. The city's cats are seen as a public trust, with many Istanbulites viewing their care as a civic duty and a cherished tradition.

Given this backdrop, the recent proposed changes to Turkey's animal welfare regulations have sparked significant concern and opposition. The proposed shift from the humane Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) method to a more severe Trap-Neuter-Hold/Adopt/Kill strategy threatens this cherished way of life.

Overview of the Proposed Regulations

The Turkish government's recent proposal to overhaul animal welfare laws is deeply flawed and has raised significant concerns among animal welfare advocates. The proposed regulations aim to replace the current Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) method with a much harsher Trap-Neuter-Hold/Adopt/Kill strategy. This approach mandates capturing stray animals and taking them to shelters, where they will either be adopted or euthanized if deemed unadoptable due to aggression, illness, or other reasons.

These changes mark a drastic departure from the existing legislation, which requires municipalities to neuter, vaccinate, and release stray animals back to their original locations. The government argues that this new approach is necessary to control the stray animal population, but this perspective overlooks the core issues and is fundamentally misguided.

Concerns from Animal Welfare Organizations

Animal welfare organizations in Turkey have strongly opposed these proposed changes. Groups such as Hayvanlara Adalet Derneği (HAD) contend that the new regulations will result in widespread confinement and euthanasia of stray animals, which is both inhumane and ineffective. They argue that the existing CNVR (Catch-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return) method has not failed due to its inherent flaws but because of poor implementation by local municipalities over the past two decades.

Proposed Alternatives by Experts and NGOs

Experts and animal welfare NGOs have suggested several alternatives to the proposed legislation, advocating for a more effective and humane approach:

Enhanced Implementation of CNVR

Ensuring municipalities have adequate resources and training to carry out CNVR programs properly.

Public Education Campaigns

Raising awareness about responsible pet ownership and the benefits of CNVR.

Increased Funding

Allocating more financial resources to support CNVR efforts and maintain shelters.

Collaboration with Animal Welfare Organizations

Engaging NGOs and experts in planning and executing animal control programs to leverage their expertise and resources.

Understanding the CNVR Method

The Catch-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return (CNVR) method is a globally recognized, humane strategy for managing stray animal populations. This method involves capturing stray animals, neutering and vaccinating them, and then returning them to their original territories. It effectively controls population growth and reduces the risk of disease transmission, benefiting both animal welfare and public health.

Challenges in Implementation Over the Last 20 Years

Despite being in place for two decades, the CNVR method has not been effectively implemented in Turkey. The primary challenges include a lack of resources, inadequate coordination among municipal authorities, and insufficient enforcement of the law. Many municipalities see animal welfare duties as a burden and fail to allocate the necessary funds and efforts to carry out CNVR programs properly. Consequently, the stray animal population has continued to grow, undermining the intended benefits of the legislation.

Marginalization of Expert Opinions

Critics argue that the Turkish government is disregarding the expertise of veterinarians, animal welfare advocates, and public health experts who support the CNVR method. These professionals warn that the proposed regulations will likely exacerbate issues rather than resolve them. Ignoring these experts risks implementing policies that could lead to more harm for both animals and public health.

Successful Application of CNVR in the Netherlands

The Netherlands serves as a successful example of the CNVR method. Through a collaborative effort involving government agencies, animal welfare organizations, and the public, the Netherlands has managed to virtually eliminate its stray dog population. This success underscores the importance of consistent implementation, public education, and municipal support. The Dutch experience shows that with the right approach and commitment, the CNVR method can lead to significant positive outcomes.

Ineffectiveness of Alternative Methods

Countries that have attempted methods such as mass euthanasia or indefinite sheltering have faced various challenges and failures. For example, in parts of Eastern Europe and some U.S. states, mass euthanasia led to public outrage, did not solve the root problem, and often resulted in higher costs and logistical issues. These methods have proven to be unsustainable and ineffective in the long term compared to the humane and systematic approach of CNVR.

Environmental and Public Health Risks

Implementing the proposed regulations could have adverse effects on both the environment and public health. Large-scale confinement and euthanasia of stray animals can lead to ecological imbalances and increase the risk of disease outbreaks. Moreover, without addressing the root causes of stray populations, such measures are likely to be temporary fixes that lead to recurring problems. Effective CNVR programs help maintain a balanced ecosystem and improve public health by reducing stray populations and associated diseases.

Call TO ACTION!

In light of these concerns, we urge the public to join us in opposing the proposed legislation and advocating for the humane and effective CNVR method. A protest will be held:

• Place: Amsterdam's Dam Square
• Date: July 27th
• Time: 13:00