Colombia upholds bullfighting and cockfighting ban

In a landmark decision for animal protection, Colombia’s Constitutional Court upheld Law 2385 of 2024, which bans bullfighting and other animal-fighting spectacles.

The Court ruled that culture and tradition cannot justify practices that cause suffering to sentient beings. A three-year transition period will allow affected communities to adapt livelihoods and events.

This ruling reflects a growing global movement to end animal cruelty in the name of entertainment.

A historic victory for animals in Colombia

The decision consolidates decades of advocacy from Colombian citizens, legislators and international organisations.

Bullfights, corralejas, rejoneo, novilladas, becerradas and tientas will no longer be legally permitted. In addition, the Constitutional Court confirmed that cockfighting also falls within the scope of the ban.

We have long highlighted the need to end cruel entertainment, including efforts to stop wildlife exploitation in tourism.

The Colombian Court’s recognition that animals deserve protection from cruelty strengthens these global initiatives.

Transition and adaptation

The ruling makes clear that all animal-fighting practices, from bullfights to cockfights, are now prohibited under Colombian law.

To ease the impact on those who depend on these events for their livelihoods, the Court has allowed a three-year transition period. This phased approach is designed to give communities and workers time to adapt and to explore alternative opportunities.

Supporting and implementing this kind of change can help people find ways to move away from harmful practices while keeping their livelihoods secure. That can include introducing animal welfare measures, encouraging more responsible tourism, and promoting sustainable solutions that benefit both communities and animals.

What remains to be done

Colombia’s decision is part of a growing international movement. Costa Rica, Argentina and Mexico City have taken similar steps, demonstrating that culture and tradition can evolve alongside compassion.

While Colombia has made progress, many cruel practices persist elsewhere. In some parts of Latin America and Spain, cockfighting and other spectacles remain legal.

We will continue to campaign against exploitative industries until all animals are free from suffering for tourist entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions

When were bullfights banned in Colombia?

In 2024, Congress passed Law 2385, popularly known as the No More Olé Law. In 2025, the Constitutional Court upheld its validity, consolidating the ban.

What does Law 2385 of 2024 include?

It prohibits bullfights, corralejas, bullfighting, bullfights against bulls, bullfights against young bulls, bullfights against young bulls, bullfights against young bulls, and cockfights.

Where are there bulls in Bogotá or Colombia?

There are no more. The legislation ratified by the Constitutional Court officially prohibits these shows.

Which countries still allow bullfighting?

Spain, Mexico, Peru, and Ecuador still maintain these spectacles, although with growing social rejection.