Turkey is grappling with a significant issue that has stirred heated debates across the nation — the presence of stray dogs. With an estimated 4 million strays wandering the streets, the country faces a complex challenge balancing public safety and animal rights. These dogs, most commonly Akbaş or Kangal shepherds, are often seen lounging around cities like Istanbul, becoming part of the urban landscape. One such dog, affectionately named “The Boulder,” has even become a local celebrity, with tourists flocking to see him as they explore the city’s streets. However, the increasing incidents involving stray dogs have pushed the Turkish government to take action, igniting fierce opposition and protests.
While many view these animals as a beloved part of Turkish culture, others argue that the stray population poses a threat to public safety. Last December, a tragic incident where a 10-year-old boy was attacked by a pack of stray dogs prompted a national outcry. President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan responded with a pledge to resolve the issue, stating that it was the government’s responsibility to protect citizens from the dangers posed by stray animals. His comments further polarised the country, with some calling for immediate action, while others defended the rights of the animals.
In July, Turkish lawmakers introduced a new bill aimed at addressing the growing stray dog population. Known as the “massacre law” by its critics, the legislation mandates the capture of stray dogs to be spayed, neutered, and vaccinated. However, any dogs deemed sick or dangerous would be euthanised. This law, seen by many as drastic, has led to protests from animal rights groups and opposition parties, who argue that it is a veiled attempt at controlling public life.
The new law has divided the nation. On one side are those who support the government’s stance, believing that the growing stray dog population is a hazard that needs to be controlled. Proponents, including Erdoğan, argue that no other developed country faces such an issue with stray animals, and that decisive measures must be taken to restore public order.
On the other side are activists who see the law as a threat not only to animals but also to civil liberties. Many accuse the government of using the law to assert further control over public life. Activists like Zeynep Tekin fear that this crackdown on strays is a precursor to broader suppression of other marginalised groups in society. “This is about much more than an animal rights issue … this is a war between the Turkish government and the oppressed,” she said.
The controversy surrounding the law has led to widespread protests, particularly in cities like Istanbul. Demonstrators argue that the real issue lies in the lack of proper funding for municipal shelters, which are already overcrowded and under-resourced. İnci Kutay, a long-time volunteer at a shelter in Istanbul, described the dire conditions, with each dog allocated just two square metres of space. Sending more animals to these shelters, she warned, would be akin to a death sentence for many.
At a recent protest, hundreds of animal rights activists and left-wing groups gathered, united by their shared discontent with the current government’s policies. While some saw the protest as a chance to challenge the ruling AKP’s conservative shift over the past two decades, others focused solely on the animals, with banners of puppies and Turkish flags raised high. “We’re here to defend the right to life,” said protester Tulin Yeniçeri, underscoring the sentiment that this was not just a political struggle but a fight for fundamental rights.
Turkey’s relationship with stray dogs is deep-rooted, and for many, the sight of dogs roaming the streets is as familiar as the country’s rich landscapes. However, this new law has sparked a fierce debate about whether Turkey should prioritise animal welfare or public safety. The government insists that its actions are in the best interests of both the public and the animals, aiming to strike a balance between reducing the stray population and preventing attacks like the one that injured the young boy last year.
Opponents, however, are not convinced. Many believe that the government’s efforts are misguided and that instead of focusing on culling strays, it should be improving conditions in shelters and enforcing existing animal protection laws. The debate continues to rage, with no clear resolution in sight.
The debate over Turkey’s stray dogs is emblematic of broader societal tensions within the country. While the government insists that its new law is a necessary measure for public safety, critics see it as a thinly veiled attempt to further restrict civil liberties and control public life. As protests continue and opposition grows, it remains to be seen how Turkey will navigate this delicate issue, balancing the rights of its citizens with the well-being of its stray animals. Euroxpe respects all viewpoints and the complexities surrounding this deeply emotional topic.
