Appeal to the European Association of Akhal-Teke Horse Breeding: Love for Animals Is Not Measured by Breed or Price

Appeal to the European Association of Akhal-Teke Horse Breeding: Love for Animals Is Not Measured by Breed or Price We have taken note of reports that Ms Marian Weltevreden, head of the European Association of Akhal-Teke Horse Breeding, sent a letter of appreciation in connection with the first World Championship for Akhal-Teke horses held in Turkmenistan. In this regard, we would like to address Ms Weltevreden and the representatives of the Association with an important appeal. Love and respect for animals should not be measured by their breed, beauty, prestige, or monetary value. A state's treatment of animals should not be judged solely by how it presents elite pedigree horses at international events, but also by how ordinary domestic and stray animals—those with no commercial or prestigious value—are treated. For many years, human rights defenders and independent sources have reported serious human rights concerns in Turkmenistan. At the same time, there have been reports of cruel treatment of stray animals, including mass round-ups and killings, as well as pressure on volunteers and problems affecting the operation of animal shelters. These reports deserve independent and careful examination by international organisations working in the field of animal welfare and protection. We call on the European Association of Akhal-Teke Horse Breeding and Ms Marian Weltevreden, before publicly expressing support for state-organised events in Turkmenistan, to consider not only the condition and achievements of the country's famous Akhal-Teke horses, but also the broader situation concerning animal welfare in the country. It is equally important to ask: what economic and social price does the population pay for large-scale international events, and how transparently are public resources used? The Akhal-Teke breed forms part of Turkmenistan's historical and cultural heritage. We therefore believe it is essential not to associate this national heritage exclusively with the country's political leadership. Akhal-Teke horses belong to the cultural and historical heritage of the Turkmen people. We call on international equestrian organisations to adopt a consistent approach: if animal welfare matters, concern must extend to all animals—regardless of their breed, origin, monetary value, or ability to generate prestige or financial benefit. A magnificent horse at an international championship and a stray dog on the street are equally capable of experiencing pain, fear, and suffering. Love for animals begins where their price ceases to matter. Dayanç Civil Human Rights Platform / Turkmenistan