Animal rights advocates in Morocco have raised concerns about the proposed Bill 19.25, which aims to regulate the management of stray animals. The bill, currently under review by the government, has sparked debate over its potential impact on animal welfare.
According to reports from Moroccan media, the bill would allow local authorities to cull stray dogs and cats in certain circumstances, a move that critics argue contradicts existing animal protection laws. The Moroccan Association for Animal Rights has called for amendments to ensure humane treatment and promote sterilization programs instead.
Proponents of the bill, including some municipal officials, argue that it is necessary to address public health and safety issues related to stray animal populations. However, no official statistics on stray animal numbers or related incidents have been released by the government as of July 2026.
The debate comes amid growing international attention on animal welfare in Morocco. In 2024, the country adopted a new law criminalizing animal abuse, but enforcement remains inconsistent. The final text of Bill 19.25 has not been published, and its timeline for adoption is unclear.
