nternational Animal Rights Day was established on this day in 1998 – the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Human Rights. Every year on December 10th, Candlelight Vigils are held throughout Europe, North and South America, and many other countries where animal rights are ignored and where animals suffer and die. The candlelighting is a tribute to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which is of paramount importance for the protection of human life, and a sign of progress in applying the Declaration's principles to all sentient beings.
The Universal Declaration of Animal Rights proclaims the right to life free from intentional pain, suffering, exploitation, and death. The Declaration has been signed by organizations large and small, representing hundreds of thousands of people in the United Kingdom, Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Ireland, Israel, Mexico, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, the Philippines, Poland, Russia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United States.
Start Date: 10.12.2026
End Date: 10.12.2026