Consell cautions about risks in bous al carrer events and the path ahead
In recent days, Valencian authorities have faced pressure over the controversial bous al carrer celebrations as seven fatalities have been recorded this summer, two of them in the Alicante province. A spokesperson for the Consell has emerged as a key voice for Compromís following Mónica Oltra’s departure. The spokesperson indicated that the issue should be addressed before next summer and hinted at possible negotiations for a third leftist pact in the coming legislature. The aim is to set a clear direction on how to handle the matter in the near future.
Mas noted that the Valencian Community already boasts some of the strictest regulations in the country, yet he warned that even these rules may not be enough given the number of deaths this season. He added that a formal discussion on the topic has not yet begun, and that it should not be rushed. The matter is expected to remain on the agenda for consideration in the months ahead.
The Minister for Equality and Inclusive Policies did not offer a personal verdict on whether these celebrations should be abolished. He pointed out that public awareness around animal welfare has grown and that the issue must be addressed sooner rather than later. He stressed that this is not a simple policy question to be decided quickly and requires time and careful coordination among administrations. In the meantime, he emphasized the need to fully comply with current laws and to ensure that municipalities are clear on how to enforce them. The law, he said, is strong and must apply to anyone who breaches it. He also called for greater public education and broader protection for citizens with regard to these actions.
Consell warns against the risk of selfies and flip flops in the bous al carrer context
Valenciacı explained that the idea of banning these practices was not included in the Botànic agreement. Consequently, there is no set roadmap between the PSPV-PSOE, Compromís and Unides Podem. Still, he asserted that the deaths have made it unmistakably clear that society wants safeguards for people and livestock alike, and that a courageous, open discussion is overdue. He framed this as a shift in public sentiment that should be addressed in due course.
He also noted that leisure time is covered under the Tourism Law and is described as an array of activities meant to be festive and enjoyable. Given the recent rise in deaths, he argued that this is precisely the moment to review protections at such events. Any decision on increasing safety measures must take municipal autonomy into account.
Another development was the extraordinary meeting of the Traditional Bullfighting Celebrations Commission held to enhance safety after a string of fatalities. The commission endorsed harsher sanctions for minors participating in these events. The goal is to keep improving security while continuing to push for broader discussions in the months ahead. There is a clear intention to walk a careful line between cultural practices and public safety. They emphasized that safety improvements should not replace a wide-ranging national conversation on the topic.
When asked whether the party should further restrict access, authorities replied that the current regulations are in force. If crowding makes enforcement difficult, special measures can be implemented. Education is viewed as a fundamental pillar of safety and a potential area for increased collaboration among the Consell, fan clubs, and local groups. In this environment, the focus remains on protecting lives while respecting local traditions. [Source attribution: Valencian government briefings.]