Destinatari

dg@dls.gov.bd\nocict@dls.gov.bd\nsecmofl@gmail.com\nobhoyaronnobangladesh@gmail.com\nbawaofficail@gmail.com\ncontact@robinhoodrescue.org\nNurul.Islam@worldanimalday.org.uk\nletters@thedailystar.net\nreporting@thedailystar.net\nopinion@thedailystar.net\nkaruna-emailpressing@maakaruna.com\nandrearomei228@gmail.com\nfrancesca.fab111@gmail.com

Oggetto

Conditions of Working Animals in Bangladesh and Enforcement of Animal Welfare Legislation

Testo email completo

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to draw your attention to the often extremely difficult conditions under which many working horses and cattle are used in Bangladesh, an issue documented by animal welfare organizations, reported by the national media, and recently brought back into public attention through the circulation of numerous videos online.

Several reports published by animal welfare organizations, together with articles from the Bangladeshi press, have highlighted cases of overloading, extremely harsh working conditions, lack of adequate veterinary care, malnutrition, and other situations that may severely compromise the welfare of animals used for transport and agricultural work.

While I fully acknowledge that social media content should always be assessed carefully and verified in its proper context, its widespread circulation has once again drawn international attention to an issue that has already been documented by independent organizations and media sources.

Bangladesh has taken an important step by adopting the Animal Welfare Act 2019, which deserves recognition. Bangladesh is also a member of the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), whose international standards recognize animal welfare as an essential component of responsible governance and sustainable livestock management.

However, in light of the evidence documented by animal welfare organizations and the media, it is essential that the protections established by law are fully and effectively enforced, particularly for working animals, which remain among the most vulnerable to exploitation and suffering.

As an example, I would like to highlight the case reported by The Daily Star concerning the rescue of 37 horses from an illegal slaughterhouse in Gazipur. According to the report, many of the animals were found severely malnourished and debilitated, while two of them died despite receiving veterinary treatment after the rescue. This case clearly demonstrates the need for stronger prevention, monitoring, and enforcement of existing legislation.

With this communication, I do not intend to refer to isolated incidents or assign responsibility to specific individuals. Rather, I wish to encourage continued monitoring, stronger enforcement, and greater protection for working animals throughout the country.

I would therefore be grateful to know:

* What initiatives are currently in place to improve the welfare of working animals;

* What measures are being taken to ensure compliance with the Animal Welfare Act 2019;

* Whether training, awareness, or monitoring programs are being implemented in areas where these problems are most prevalent;

* Whether reports or official data are available regarding the enforcement of existing animal welfare legislation;

* What additional actions may be considered to strengthen the protection of horses and cattle used for work and transport.

The way a nation protects its most vulnerable animals reflects its commitment to the rule of law, compassion, and responsible governance. Working animals have contributed to Bangladesh’s communities and economy for generations and deserve to be treated with dignity throughout their lives.

I respectfully encourage your institutions to continue strengthening enforcement, veterinary assistance, inspections, monitoring, and public awareness so that the important principles established by the Animal Welfare Act 2019 become effective protection for every working animal.

The protection of the most vulnerable constitutes an immediate public duty, requiring clear, traceable actions consistent with the applicable legal framework.

Thank you for your attention and for your commitment to animal welfare.

Yours sincerely,
Karuna

Attivismo by Progetto Vegan (www.maakaruna.com)
Independent, non-partisan and non-religious movement committed to the protection of animals, the environment and universal rights.