GAIA action
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23 February 2026

This Monday, GAIA and the Fur Free Alliance — an international coalition bringing together more than 45 animal protection organizations active in over 30 countries — staged an action in front of the European Commission headquarters. Their objective: to urge the European Union to bring the fur industry to a definitive end.

Outside the Berlaymont building, trucks fitted with LED screens broadcast footage filmed inside fur farms, confronting policymakers and passers-by with the reality of fur production.

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A response from the Commission expected by March 2026

This mobilization comes at a crucial moment. The European Commission is set to adopt its official response to the European Citizens’ Initiative (ECI) “Fur Free Europe,” which has gathered more than 1.5 million validated signatures across the EU — making it one of the most supported ECIs to date.

Under EU rules, the Commission must publicly present its legal and political conclusions, as well as the actions it intends to take, no later than March 2026.

The European Commission must respect this strong democratic signal and, within the announced timeframe, propose a clear and comprehensive ban on both fur farming and the sale of fur. This cruel and outdated industry has no place in Europe.

Ann De Greef
Managing Director at GAIA
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A cruel and outdated industry

Every year, 7 million animals are still bred and killed for their fur in the European Union. Mink, foxes and raccoon dogs are confined to narrow wire cages, deprived of the ability to express their natural behaviors.

Many develop stereotypical behaviors, self-mutilation and chronic stress. They are generally killed by gassing or anal electrocution. In 2025, GAIA documented these practices through undercover footage filmed on several European fur farms, notably in Poland.

Today, more than 15 EU Member States — including Belgium — have already banned fur farming. In Belgium, fur production came to a definitive end in 2023.

Europe needs to take action

Momentum is already building within the Union. With more than 15 Member States having banned fur farming, GAIA and the Fur Free Alliance believe it is time to take the next step: an EU-wide ban covering both the production and sale of fur.

Belgian public opinion appears aligned with this demand. According to a Dedicated survey commissioned by GAIA (January 2025):

  • 76% of Belgians say they have a negative image of brands that continue to sell fur;
  • 73% support a ban on the sale of fur.

Key figures

  • 1.5+ million validated signatures for “Fur Free Europe”
  • 7 million animals bred and killed annually in the EU
  • 15+ Member States have already banned fur farming
  • 2023: definitive end of fur farming in Belgium
  • 73% of Belgians support a ban on fur sales (Dedicated survey, 01/2025)