Swiss expert: Latvia needs to strengthen its animal protection system

Animal protection has become a topical issue in Latvia following incidents such as the shooting of dogs in Bauska municipality and cases of sexual abuse of animals. Swiss animal rights lawyer Antoine F. Goetschel discussed in an interview what needs to change in this area.

The expert explains that simply changing the legal wording to state that an animal is not property is only a first step — the practical and legal changes that follow are what matter most. Switzerland introduced such a provision into its Civil Code in 2003, though the principle of dignity of living beings had already been enshrined in the country's constitution in 1992. This allowed a shift from a simple ban on cruelty toward a broader approach requiring respect for an animal's dignity and inherent value, even in cases where it has not suffered direct physical pain.

Following the status change, Swiss court practice also evolved: it became possible to claim compensation for an animal's veterinary treatment costs exceeding its market value, courts in divorce cases began assessing which former partner would provide better conditions for the animal, and in inheritance and debt-recovery matters animals are no longer treated simply as ordinary property. At the same time, the capacity of veterinary services and police expertise has been strengthened, and animal welfare has become a topic discussed not only by activists but also by scientists, politicians and farmers.

Assessing the situation in Latvia, Goetschel expresses cautious optimism, noting that the issue is being taken seriously by both politicians and prosecutors, and that Latvian animal protection organizations are highly motivated. At the same time, he notes these organizations' frustration that they lack sufficient influence in decisions concerning animals, adding that this is not a problem unique to Latvia. According to the expert, if legislative changes in Latvia are accompanied by well-considered legal solutions and strengthened institutional capacity, an effective animal protection system could develop in the country.