AAFT has reached out to Greek policymakers ahead of the expected European Commission Communication on fur farming. We urge Greece to support an EU-wide phase-out and to back a dedicated transition programme for affected farmers.
The question is no longer whether change is coming, but how
Across Europe, the fur sector has been in steady decline. Most Member States have already restricted or prohibited fur farming, and major fashion brands have abandoned fur products. More than 1.5 million Europeans have also supported the Fur Free Europe European Citizens’ Initiative.
The scientific evidence is equally clear. Wild animals such as mink, foxes and raccoon dogs cannot live in cage-based farming systems without suffering poor welfare. EFSA concluded that fur farming causes welfare problems that cannot be adequately prevented or mitigated. These problems are inherent to the system, not the result of poor farming practices.
Greece is one of the few countries that still supports fur farming. It now has an opportunity to help shape the transition instead of resisting it. Public support should help farmers move towards future-proof economic activities. It should not prolong dependence on a sector facing growing political, ethical and market pressures.
We call on the Greek government to present a well-designed transition programme. The programme should protect livelihoods while aligning with evolving societal expectations, public health considerations and the direction of EU animal welfare policy. Delaying this transition will only reduce the options available to farmers and policymakers.
