Bill to ban slaughter of horses for meat sparks debate

A legislative proposal to ban the slaughter of horses for meat has reignited debate in Italy over animal welfare, tradition and food culture.

The bill, introduced by MP and animal rights campaigner Michela Vittoria Brambilla, seeks to recognise horses as companion animals. If approved, it would impose prison sentences of up to three years and fines of up to €100,000 for equine slaughter. Brambilla, a member of Noi Moderati within Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s ruling coalition, said the proposal offers “an extraordinary opportunity to bring about a cultural change that is already dear to the hearts of the majority of Italians.”

Animal welfare groups including the International Organization for Animal Protection (OIPA) support the measure, arguing that horses possess advanced cognitive and emotional capacities that justify special legal protection. Supporters also point to changing social attitudes, with horses increasingly seen as partners in sport, therapy and companionship rather than livestock.

Slaughter for meat fallen in last decade

Official data from Istat show that annual horse slaughter in Italy has fallen from more than 70,000 animals in 2012 to around 22,000 in 2024. An Ipsos survey published last May found that only 17% of meat consumers eat horse meat at least once a month, while many cite empathy or view horses as pets.

However, opposition remains strongly favour of the slaughter of horses for meat in regions such as Puglia, Sicilia, Lombardia, Veneto and Emilia-Romagna,. There horse meat dishes form part of local culinary heritage. Industry representatives warn that a ban could cost jobs and dismantle a long-standing supply chain, while critics argue it may simply shift production abroad or underground.