Canada Takes Historic Step Toward Ending Captivity of Elephants and Great Apes
Canada is on the verge of making history with Bill S-15, groundbreaking legislation that could dramatically reshape the country’s approach to animal welfare. Introduced by the Government of Canada in November 2023, the bill seeks to ban the captivity of elephants and great apes—two of the world’s most intelligent and emotionally complex species.
Under Bill S-15, new ownership of elephants and great apes would be prohibited unless a specialized permit is granted for specific purposes such as animal welfare, conservation programs, or legitimate scientific research. The bill also outlaws the use of these animals in circus-style shows and elephant rides, practices widely criticized for causing distress and exploitation.
The legislation has already cleared a significant hurdle, successfully passing through Canada’s Senate. It is now under consideration by the House of Commons, the final step before becoming law. If enacted, Bill S-15 would make Canada the first nation in the world to implement a federally mandated phase-out of elephant captivity.
Animal welfare advocates have hailed the bill as a monumental victory. Elephants and great apes—creatures known for their advanced cognition, deep social bonds, and long-term memory—have long been at the center of ethical debates surrounding captivity. Many experts argue that their physical and psychological needs simply cannot be met in confined spaces.
Canada’s move signals a shift in global thinking about how societies should treat large, sentient animals. As the world continues to grapple with the ethics of captivity, Canada’s leadership could inspire other countries to reassess their practices and strengthen animal welfare protections.
If Bill S-15 becomes law, it will not only reshape the nation’s zoos and entertainment industries but also cement Canada’s role as a pioneer in progressive animal rights legislation—setting a powerful precedent for the international community.