Beyond humans, who are referred to in Islam as “the noblest of creatures” and described by philosophers as homo sapiens due to their reasoning and intellect, numerous other living beings inhabit the Earth. Each plays a critical role in the natural cycle and ecosystem. Science has proven that the absence of any one of them—even the smallest organisms—can pose a severe threat to the ecological balance.

In modern times, animal rights, much like human rights, gradually became codified into law. Unfortunately, some individuals continue to believe that they can trample on the rights of other humans and living beings to sustain their lives. This dangerous mindset manifests in reckless actions against animals, plants, and the environment. Such attitudes have led to the extinction of many species of animals and plants, erasing them forever from the face of the Earth.

Today, how societies treat animals and plants has become a hallmark of cultural sophistication and social awareness. Regrettably, in some communities, including Iran, this consciousness has yet to become widespread.

The respect and observance of animal rights in Iran remain in a dire state. From unregulated hunting and the lack of habitat protection for endangered species to the abuse of street animals, these issues represent significant cultural challenges. Evidence of this can be found in the occasional videos circulated on social media, sparking public outrage and sorrow. These clips reveal not only individuals who violate animal rights but, worse, people who take pleasure in harming animals.

If we were to conduct street interviews today, asking citizens about animal abuse, no one would openly condone such behavior. Yet, in practice, a significant number of people still fail to respect these rights and engage in acts of cruelty against animals.

Raising awareness about animal rights requires public education, beginning in childhood and integrated into the school curriculum. In tandem with education, modern legislation with enforceable sanctions is essential to ensure strict adherence to these rights. What is needed to institutionalize respect for animal rights is a focus on public education and cultural development. Schools should introduce these principles early, making them a standard part of education. Children, as the future generation of the country, have a direct influence on their parents and can remind them of the importance of animal rights when necessary.

However, in a country where even human lives and citizens’ rights face severe threats and challenges, it is unsurprising that the right to life and well-being of animals often goes unaddressed. While billions are spent annually on promoting population growth through media campaigns, street billboards, and sometimes unnecessary or even counterproductive programming, the essential cultural promotion of animal rights—a hallmark of a civilized society—remains neglected.

The most crucial step may lie in drafting deterrent laws to protect animal rights—laws that are humane, civilized, and robust enough to prevent abuse. Such legislation would discourage individuals from committing heinous acts of cruelty, such as those seen in circulated videos where a dog is tied to a car and dragged on the ground or where four innocent foxes are brutally killed and hung on a porch as a “warning to other foxes.”

Fortunately, in recent years, the enlightened and progressive segments of Iranian society have shown strong and logical reactions to such issues. This reflects an improvement in the collective cultural and social consciousness. Additionally, independent and grassroots organizations have been actively addressing animal welfare and raising awareness, efforts that deserve great appreciation.

Nonetheless, as mentioned earlier, cultural development in any area is deeply influenced by the role of the government. In the current context, the government plays a decisive role because it often retains authority over key domains, leaving limited room for civil institutions to act independently. Consequently, public demands are often directed toward the state, which is then obligated to respond.

Given this situation, the government bears the responsibility of drafting supportive legislation for animal protection, overseeing the enforcement of these laws, and promoting cultural awareness to elevate society’s consciousness about coexistence with animals. In this journey, responsible, civilized, and culturally aware citizens stand ready to assist the government.

By taking appropriate measures, the government can transform these citizens into allies and collaborators. Otherwise, it may face perpetual criticism and opposition from them. Supporters of animal rights are closely monitoring the government’s actions, and they will not abandon their pursuit of a secure and humane environment for animals until this national and humanitarian demand is fulfilled.