Watch: Protest Outside Mediterraneo Calls For End To Marine Mammal Captivity In Malta
A peaceful protest took place this morning outside Mediterraneo Marine Park in Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq, as activists and NGOs joined forces to demand urgent action for the animals being kept at the facility.
The protest, organised under the Waves Not Walls campaign, was led by Earth Systems Association (ESA), Friends of the Earth Malta, Animal Liberation Malta, Marine Connection and Dolphin Project.
The event was also backed by 27 organisations.
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During the protest, ESA president Justine Previpublicly read a powerful joint statement revealing new evidence that dolphins and other animals at Mediterraneo are suffering in poor and unsafe conditions. According to the statement, the animals are kept in barren enclosures with no enrichment, no access to shade, and no proper care, even during Malta’s intense heatwaves.
Dolphins are reportedly circling endlessly in small tanks, while sea lions and birds are forced to perform in daily shows. The statement also alleges there have been animal deaths, cover-ups, and a complete lack of transparency at the facilit, raising serious concerns over breaches of EU animal welfare laws.
The groups are calling for an independent investigation into the park’s animal welfare practices, the immediate suspension of all animal shows and swim-with-dolphin programmes, and urgent access to veterinary care and oversight.
They are also demanding a clear long-term plan to shut down the park and rehome the animals responsibly, putting an end to marine mammal captivity in Malta once and for all.
The public is being encouraged to continue spreading awareness, invite friends to join the campaign, and use their voices to stand up for the animals.
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