The Head of the Delegation of Bulgarian Socialists in the European Parliament, Kristian Vigenin, has urged the European Commission to take urgent action regarding cases of animal cruelty. During a hearing with Health and Animal Welfare Commissioner Oliver Várhelyi at the European Parliament’s Public Health Committee (SANT), Vigenin raised the need for new measures at the European level in response to a shocking case of animal abuse that recently outraged Bulgaria.

The Bulgarian MEP informed Commissioner Várhelyi about the discovery of a network engaged in the preparation and distribution of videos depicting extreme violence against animals for commercial purposes. These videos were being sold to international buyers through social media platforms, highlighting the cross-border nature of the crime.

“This case not only shocked the public but also raises serious questions about the ability of national and European institutions to combat such crimes. We must ensure stricter penalties and effective cross-border coordination to prevent such practices in the future.” Vigenin emphasized.

The MEP proposed concrete steps to address the issue:
“We need enhanced cooperation at the European level, harmonized legislation, and tougher penalties for crimes involving animal abuse. International collaboration to investigate and prosecute such offenses must also be strengthened.”

Commissioner Várhelyi described the case as an “extremely alarming criminal act” requested additional information and committed to take immediate action in consultation with Home Affairs Commissioner Magnus Brunner.