Tragedy on the Turkish border has political consequences

The case of the 69 pregnant cattle that were stranded for weeks at the Turkish border in Kapikule in the fall of 2024 and died in agony now has political consequences in Germany. On September 26, 2025, the Federal Council approved a motion by the state of North Rhine-Westphalia, on the recommendation of the Agricultural Committee, which provides for stricter rules for animal transports to third countries.

In future, animal transports will only be permitted to countries that have animal welfare standards comparable to those of the EU – and can demonstrate that they are implementing them. In the event of violations, trade with these countries may be suspended.

EU negotiations underway

At the European level, discussions are currently underway on revising the Animal Welfare Transport Regulation. However, a complete ban on animal exports to third countries is not planned. In its resolution, the Bundesrat calls on the federal government to advocate for a positive list of third countries. This would mean that transports would only be permitted to a few selected countries. 

Background: Systemic problems

In its statement of reasons, the Agriculture Committee makes it clear that animal welfare violations occur repeatedly during long exports to third countries and that authorities have little opportunity to intervene during transport. The committee refers to the tragedy that occurred in October 2024 at the Turkish border, in which 69 cattle and their calves died in agony.

Together with our partner organization Animals' Angels and the German journalist Manfred Karremann, we tried to help, but could only document the suffering and death of the animals. This makes it all the more important for us that this tragic case now at least has political consequences. In recent months, we have exerted pressure at various levels, explaining the case to government officials at conferences and campaigning for Germany to finally consider a ban on exports to third countries.