Animal welfare or stigmatization: Petition Sparks Debate

A petition in Luxembourg demands tighter controls on what it describes as organised begging networks using animals. The petitioners argue that some dogs and other animals are exploited and call for stricter sanctions, increased police and veterinary checks, temporary shelters and a permit system for begging with animals.

They insist they do not want to target homeless people. However, the petition links visible street poverty to “criminal networks” without presenting publicly verified evidence. Images circulating online have added an emotional dimension to the debate.

Radio ARA spoke with Alexandra Oxacelay, director of Stëmm vun der Strooss. She says she has not seen proof of organised networks abusing animals. For her, growing poverty, social exclusion and visible homelessness are the core issues.

The question of organised begging has surfaced before. In response to a parliamentary question, Home Affairs Minister Léon Gloden stated in 2024 that authorities had no concrete evidence of cross-border transport of beggars that is brought up by the petitioners. Upon our request, the police confirmed that there’s “no information indicating that the described situation involves organised groups operating in this manner in Luxembourg City. We also have no information about cases in which animals are being mistreated in connection with these activities.”

Luxembourg’s animal protection law already prohibits cruelty and neglect, regardless of the owner’s situation. Authorities can remove animals if welfare is at risk. The police says, “officers, in particular members of the local police, carry out daily foot patrols, especially in the upper city. During these patrols, identity checks are regularly conducted, and the animals accompanying individuals are also inspected. If an animal is not kept in accordance with regulations or is poorly treated, the necessary measures are taken.”

Adding further controls without documented abuse cases may increase the risk of broader stigmatisation, a dynamic reflected in parts of the current public debate.