HARDERWIJK – On Saturday, May 10, 2025, animal rights organizations Bite Back, Animal Rights, and Animal Save Nederland held a protest march in Harderwijk, demanding the closure of the Dolfinarium. This event was part of the international campaign 'Empty the Tanks', which aims to raise awareness about the suffering of marine mammals in captivity.
The demonstration began at 1 PM at the Harderwijk station and concluded around 4 PM at the Dolfinarium. Participants marched through the city center and along Strandboulevard Oost, carrying banners and protest signs. The messages on the signs were clear: "Animals Are Not Acrobats," "This Is Exploitation, Not Education," and "Animals Are Not Entertainment." At the entrance of the Dolfinarium, activists delivered speeches urging for the park's closure and for the relocation of the animals to more natural habitats, such as protected bays.
The protest was spurred by ongoing concerns regarding the use of marine mammals for entertainment purposes and recent sanctions imposed by the Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland (RVO) due to permit violations by the Dolfinarium. The organizations involved are calling for an end to breeding, trading, and exploiting these creatures, as well as advocating for independent research into alternative care options.
Earlier in April 2025, the Dolfinarium faced criticism from the RVO after it was found to be violating multiple regulations during animal shows. The RVO stated that the animals often displayed unnatural behavior, which is contrary to the intended purpose of such exhibitions. The Dolfinarium has since made adjustments to its shows but plans to appeal the RVO's findings, arguing that the tricks presented are educational.
Dolfinarium director Alex Tiebot responded to the protest, stating, "We respect peaceful protests like this, even if we disagree with the content. We are pleased that today’s demonstration occurred in a legal and calm manner, which hasn’t always been the case in the past." This comment reflects a recognition of the activists' right to voice their concerns while maintaining that the Dolfinarium stands by its practices.
The 'Empty the Tanks' campaign has gained traction worldwide, with similar protests occurring in various locations, all highlighting the plight of marine mammals held in captivity. The campaign emphasizes that marine mammals are not meant for entertainment and calls for their release into more suitable environments.
As the marchers made their way to the Dolfinarium, they chanted slogans and waved their banners, drawing attention from passersby and local media. The demonstration not only showcased the activists' commitment to animal rights but also aimed to educate the public about the ethical implications of keeping marine mammals in captivity.
Many attendees expressed their concerns about the treatment of animals in entertainment settings. One participant, who wished to remain anonymous, remarked, "It’s heartbreaking to see these intelligent creatures reduced to mere performers. They deserve to live freely in their natural habitats, not in tanks for our amusement." This sentiment resonated throughout the crowd, as supporters united for a common cause.
The Dolfinarium, established in 1965, has been a popular attraction in Harderwijk, drawing visitors eager to see marine mammals up close. However, as public awareness of animal welfare issues grows, institutions like the Dolfinarium face increasing scrutiny and calls for reform. The question remains: can such facilities adapt to the changing views on animal rights, or will they ultimately be forced to close their doors?
Activists argue that the time for change is now. They believe that the future of marine mammals lies not in captivity but in conservation efforts that prioritize their well-being and natural behaviors. As the protest concluded, many participants expressed hope that their efforts would lead to meaningful changes in how marine mammals are treated and perceived.
The protest in Harderwijk is part of a larger movement advocating for the rights of all animals, particularly those used in entertainment. As more people become aware of the issues surrounding animal captivity, the pressure on facilities like the Dolfinarium will likely continue to grow.
In the coming weeks and months, the Dolfinarium may need to address the concerns raised during the protest and consider the implications of its practices on animal welfare. The ongoing dialogue between animal rights activists and entertainment facilities is crucial in shaping a future where animals are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve.
As society grapples with these ethical dilemmas, the voices of activists and concerned citizens will play a pivotal role in advocating for change. The march in Harderwijk serves as a reminder that the fight for animal rights is far from over, and that every voice counts in the pursuit of justice for these creatures.
