Is Cockfighting Legal in Greece?
Cockfighting is illegal in Greece. It has been outlawed since 1975, following the end of the military junta. However, despite its illegal status, cockfighting still takes place in some rural areas of the country, and even in urban areas, where it is practiced in secret. The authorities are working to crack down on these illegal activities and enforce the existing laws.
What is the Brief Overview of Cockfighting in Greece?
Cockfighting is a blood sport that involves two roosters, also known as gamecocks, fighting each other in a ring, usually until one of them is killed or severely injured. The practice dates back thousands of years and has been prevalent in many cultures around the world. In Greece, cockfighting was once a popular and socially accepted sport. Ancient Greek pottery and artwork often depict scenes of cockfighting, and it is believed that the sport was practiced for both entertainment and religious purposes.
However, over time, attitudes towards cockfighting have changed, and it is now considered a cruel and inhumane activity. As a result, it has been outlawed in many countries, including Greece.
How is Cockfighting Known Locally in Greece?
In Greece, cockfighting is known as kogkora (κόγκορα) or alektoromachia (αλεκτορομαχία). The word kogkora is derived from the Greek word for rooster, kogkos (κόγκος), while alektoromachia is a compound word that combines alektor (αλεκτορ), meaning rooster, and machia (μαχία), meaning battle or fight.
What are the Laws and Penalties Related to Cockfighting in Greece?
Under Greek law, organizing, participating in, or attending a cockfight is illegal and can result in both criminal and administrative penalties. These include:
- Fines: Organizers and participants can be fined up to €30,000, while spectators can be fined up to €3,000.
- Imprisonment: In some cases, individuals involved in cockfighting can face up to 12 months in prison.
- Animal confiscation: Authorities have the power to seize and remove any animals involved in cockfighting, as well as any equipment used for the illegal activity.
In addition to these penalties, individuals convicted of cockfighting offenses can also face additional consequences under Greece’s animal welfare laws, such as being banned from owning animals in the future.
What are the Government Laws and Resources Concerning Cockfighting in Greece?
There are several Greek laws and government resources that address animal welfare and the prohibition of cockfighting, including:
- Law 4039/2012: This law, also known as the Animal Protection Law, explicitly prohibits cockfighting and outlines the penalties for those involved in the illegal activity. It also provides for the confiscation of animals and equipment used in cockfighting.
- Ministry of Rural Development and Food: This government agency is responsible for overseeing and enforcing animal welfare laws in Greece, including those related to cockfighting. The Ministry works in conjunction with local authorities and the police to crack down on illegal cockfighting activities.
- Animal welfare organizations: Several non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Greece, such as the Greek Animal Welfare Fund (GAWF) and the Hellenic Society for the Protection of Nature, work to promote animal welfare and raise awareness about the cruelty of cockfighting.
In conclusion, while cockfighting has a long history in Greece, it is now considered an inhumane and illegal activity. The Greek government and various organizations are working together to enforce the existing laws and ensure that this cruel practice is eradicated from the country.