Is Cockfighting Legal in Egypt?
Cockfighting is illegal in Egypt, as it is considered to be a cruel and inhumane activity that causes unnecessary harm and suffering to animals. The Egyptian Penal Code and the Law on the Protection of the Environment and Natural Resources explicitly prohibit animal cruelty and abuse, including cockfighting.
What is the Current State of Cockfighting in Egypt?
Despite its illegality, cockfighting remains a clandestine activity in some rural areas of Egypt. It is often practiced in secret, with participants and spectators gathering in remote locations to avoid detection by the authorities. The fights are usually organized and managed by local gangs and criminal networks, who are responsible for breeding, training, and preparing the birds for combat. Cockfighting is not only a source of entertainment but also a lucrative business, as bets are placed on the outcomes of the fights.
How is Cockfighting Referred to in Egypt?
In Egypt, cockfighting is often referred to as Al-Sabong (السبونج), which is derived from the Arabic word sabung, meaning cockfight. The term Al-Sabong is used to describe both the practice of cockfighting and the events or matches where the fights take place.
What Laws and Penalties Exist for Cockfighting in Egypt?
There are several laws and penalties in place to deter and punish those involved in cockfighting in Egypt:
- Egyptian Penal Code: According to Article 357, anyone found guilty of abusing animals or subjecting them to cruel treatment can face imprisonment for up to six months and/or a fine of up to 200 EGP.
- Law on the Protection of the Environment and Natural Resources: Article 28 of this law prohibits the abuse of animals and the infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering on them. Violators can face imprisonment for up to one year and/or a fine of up to 10,000 EGP.
- Administrative Measures: In addition to the criminal penalties, the Egyptian government can also impose administrative sanctions on those involved in cockfighting, such as the confiscation and destruction of the birds and the closure of the venues where the fights take place.
How Do Egyptian Government Laws and Regulations Address Cockfighting?
The Egyptian government has implemented several measures to address the issue of cockfighting and to ensure the enforcement of the relevant laws and regulations:
- Law Enforcement: The police and other law enforcement agencies are responsible for investigating and prosecuting cases of animal cruelty, including cockfighting. They have the authority to raid and shut down illegal cockfighting events and to arrest and charge the organizers and participants.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: The government, in collaboration with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and animal rights groups, has launched public awareness campaigns to educate the population about the negative effects of cockfighting and the importance of animal welfare. These campaigns include the distribution of informational materials, the organization of workshops and seminars, and the use of mass media to spread the message.
- International Cooperation: Egypt is a signatory to several international treaties and conventions related to animal welfare, such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) standards. By adhering to these agreements, the Egyptian government is committed to promoting and implementing best practices in animal welfare, including the prohibition of cruel and inhumane activities like cockfighting.