Most Spaniards want an end to bullfighting and hunting

04-03-2025

A recent study by the Fundación BBVA reveals that 77% of the Spanish population disapproves of bullfighting, while 80% oppose hunting. Additionally, three out of four Spaniards reject animal cruelty in entertainment and fashion. These findings align with other recent surveys on Spaniards’ opinions regarding the use of animals for entertainment and cultural traditions.

The Fundación BBVA focuses on promoting scientific research, culture, and social progress. Its 2025 study “Percepciones de la naturaleza y los animales” (Perceptions of Nature and Animals) shows that Spaniards oppose the use of animals for various purposes in multiple areas:

• 84% condemn circuses with animals.
• 80% reject hunting as a sport.
• 77% find it unacceptable to use animals in bullfighting.
• 90% disapprove of using fur in clothing.

Generational differences

The report shows that 45% of the Spanish population feels a “strong connection” with animals. This sentiment is stronger among:

• Women (+12% compared to men).
• Young people aged 18-34 (+18% compared to those over 65).
• University-educated individuals (+22% compared to those with only primary education).
• Pet owners, who show 30% more opposition to animal-based entertainment.

Hunting as a sport

A clear generational divide is also evident in attitudes toward hunting as a sport:

• 92% of young people aged 18-24 consider it unnecessary.
• In contrast, 68% of those over 65 share this view.

Decline of bullfighting

Bullfighting, declared cultural heritage in 2013, has reached an all-time low in Spain. In 2008, its average acceptance score was 2.7 on a scale of 1 to 10. By 2025, this has dropped to 1.8.

Maite van Gerwen, director of CAS International, states:

“It couldn’t be clearer. The Spanish population is making it known that it is time to put an end to this cruel tradition. The recently submitted citizens’ initiative reinforces this message. It is time for the government to take public opinion seriously and act accordingly.”

715,606 signatures to end bullfighting as cultural heritage in Spain

Changing attitudes towards animals

More broadly, the study reveals that 74% of Spaniards believe humans do not have the right to dominate other animals. This view has grown significantly since 2008, when only 53% shared this belief.

BBVA’s research reflects the current values of Spanish society, showing that the majority advocates for a respectful relationship with animals—a trend confirmed by other recent studies.

CAS International Study

In 2024, Ipsos I&O Public, on behalf of CAS International, conducted a study involving 7,500 people on bullfighting. The results showed that most people in Spain, France, and Portugal oppose bullfighting, believing that the tradition causes excessive suffering to bulls.

Furthermore, a large majority of citizens in these three European countries where bullfighting still takes place believe that public funds should not be used to support it. Additionally, they agree that the European Union should protect animal welfare within cultural traditions.

Majority of people in European bullfighting countries against the harmful tradition

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