“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Brigitte Bardot, an icon not only of cinema, but of global animal protection.
“Brigitte Bardot was fearless in her compassion. Long after she left the spotlight, she devoted her life, her voice and her influence to defending animals who could not speak for themselves. Through the Brigitte Bardot Foundation, she stood unflinchingly against cruelty, injustice and political indifference.
“As a member of the IAWPC coalition, Brigitte Bardot lent her authority and moral clarity, to what is currently, in Morocco, one of the most relentless and merciless, inhumane mass dog killing programmes by any Government in the world. It is likely, that some 3-million owned and street dogs will lose their lives for a FIFA football tournament.
“Her powerful letter to Gianni Infantino, President of FIFA this year, was a defining early moment in our campaign to expose and halt this brutal mass killing of dogs in Morocco ahead of the 2030 World Cup. She spoke with honesty, courage and humanity, refusing to accept false assurances and demanding accountability where others remained silent.
“She reminded the world that animal suffering is never ‘collateral damage’ and that violence towards animals traumatises entire communities, including children. Her insistence that ethical, humane solutions exist and must be implemented, will remain central to the IAWPC’s mission.
“Brigitte Bardot’s legacy is one of moral strength. She did not look away. She did not soften her words to appease power. She stood firmly on the side of compassion, justice and truth.
“On behalf of the International Animal Welfare Protection Coalition, I extend our deepest condolences to her family and to all those around the world who were inspired by her extraordinary life. We honour her by continuing the fight for justice for the animal kingdom, one she never once abandoned.
“Brigitte Bardot showed us that one voice, when used bravely, can echo around the world. The voice of Brigitte Bardot as a champion of the animals, will never be forgotten.”
Les Ward MBE
Chairman
International Animal Welfare Protection Coalition (IAWPC)
