Since 2021, we have been systematically monitoring the market in Craiova (Romania), where lambs and kid goats were slaughtered in the week before Easter. From the following year onwards, we also extended our observations to the market in Târgu Jiu, which is similar to the one in Craiova, but somewhat larger.
Year after year, we have reported our significant concerns to the competent veterinary authorities regarding the serious issues identified: after purchase and transport for slaughter, the animals were handled in a cruel manner and killed without compliance with the legal requirements designed to reduce pain and fear—particularly with regard to mandatory stunning and the technical standards for slaughter facilities. Although we ultimately wish for a world in which lambs and kid goats are no longer killed for consumption, we consider it essential that existing regulations are consistently implemented and enforced as long as this practice continues. For this reason, we documented our observations through photographs and videos—often difficult to capture, but necessary to make the reality on the ground visible. We also held discussions with the authorities and the companies involved in organising these markets, and sought constructive dialogue.
At meetings held two months ago, all parties indicated their willingness to address the identified issues and find solutions. Today, we can report a concrete outcome: this year, the markets in Craiova and Târgu Jiu were not authorised and did not take place during the Easter period. In addition, other similar markets that had taken place in previous years were also closed. This confirms the statements of the authorities, who report that such activities are in decline for various reasons, including the relatively low consumption of lamb meat in Romania.
We hope that this trend will continue and strengthen—not only in Romania, but in all countries where lamb or goat meat is traditionally consumed at Easter. We therefore extend our appreciation to the authorities and operators who made this difficult but necessary decision, helping to prevent considerable animal suffering.
