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A bottlenose dolphin in captivity in France. Note the damage to the ends of both jaws.

Dolphinaria-Free Europe is a coalition of NGOs (non-Government Organisations) and professionals, working together to end the keeping of cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises) in captivity, in Europe.

Whilst working towards this goal we also seek greater protection for those cetaceans still held captive, through investigation, advocacy and education.  Members of the coalition share the position that wild animals should not be exploited for human entertainment.

Dolphinaria-Free Europe:

Operates as Europe’s united voice for captive cetaceansRepresents leading expertise in cetacean biology and welfareProvides high quality information on the state of captive cetacean welfare in EuropeSeeks European legislation that effectively prevents suffering and protects both wild and captive cetaceans from the captive display industrySeeks to ensure all EU Member States have access to knowledge and training to influence and achieve effective enforcement of relevant animal protection lawStrives for a change away from keeping cetaceans in captivity in favour of their protection in the wildWorks to achieve the highest possible standards of captive cetacean welfare while cetaceans remain in captivity