Poland has taken a huge step in animal protection after the country’s president signed legislation that will bring fur farming to an end.
The decision carries weight far beyond its borders
Poland has long been the largest producer of fur in Europe and second only to China worldwide, with millions of foxes, mink, raccoon dogs and chinchillas bred and killed every year.
The new law introduces an immediate halt on new fur farms and sets an eight-year phase-out for existing operations. It follows an overwhelming vote in Poland’s lower house of parliament and years of work by advocates, who co-drafted the bill. The legislation also provides degressive compensation for farmers who leave the industry early, along with twelve months of severance pay and career transition support for workers.
President Karol Nawrocki described the reform as a long-awaited move that reflects compassion and 'respect for all living creatures.'
Footage released over the last decade exposed widespread psychological distress, injury and barren, cramped conditions across dozens of fur farms. Poland’s ban adds momentum to a trend that has grown steadily since the UK banned fur farming in 2000 on ethical grounds.
Image credit: Open Cages
Despite that early leadership, the UK continues to import and sell fur from overseas. This position is increasingly at odds with public sentiment and the commitments made a quarter of a century ago.
We’re delighted the fur ban has finally entered Polish law. The fur industry is cruel and outdated, confining millions of wild animals in tiny cages for an unnecessary product. Sadly, this cruel industry remains legal in other countries, which export and sell fur products into the UK. We urge the UK government to prioritise the upcoming Fur Bill, which proposes a ban on the import and sale of all fur in the UK, and ensure it is given sufficient time in parliament.
Advocates are now urging the UK Government to back the Fur Bill, which would close the gap between domestic policy and the country’s trade rules. A coalition of organisations under the Fur Free Britain banner has been calling for an import and sales ban, supported by a petition of more than 1.5 million signatures delivered earlier this year.
With Poland stepping away from the industry, pressure is rising on the UK to act and to bring its approach in line with the values it set in 2000.
Millions of animals continue to suffer for fashion
Poland’s decision to ban fur farming is a positive step forward, but millions of animals are still suffering every single day of their lives for fashion. From wild birds killed for their feathers to animals bred and skinned for accessories, the industry continues to rely on practices that are cruel beyond imagination.
Fashion shows play an important role in shaping what the industry accepts as normal. London Fashion Week has already banned fur and wild animal skins but wild bird feathers are still allowed, even though the cruelty behind them is no different.
We’re asking the British Fashion Council to complete its move toward wildlife-free fashion by banning wild bird feathers from all LFW events.
If you’d like to support that call, you can add your name to the petition
Images are by Open Cages