We are calling on the authorities in Malta to take immediate action regarding lions and other big cats being kept in inappropriate conditions within the country, including the facility in Rabat where four lions and one leopard were recently moved.

This petition reflects the purpose of the International Lion Rescue Organization, which is dedicated to protecting lions, leopards and other wild animals that are kept in captivity and unsafe environments. Our mission is to support their rescue, relocation and long term safety, and to ensure that they reach places where they can live in conditions that meet their needs. An official petition has been submitted to the European Parliament regarding this issue, and the situation in Rabat remains a serious concern.

Approximately six months ago, publicly shared video footage showed only three lions visible at the Rabat site. The enclosure consists of a small concrete area with no grass, no shade and no visible water source. After periods of heavy rain, the animals appear to remain without proper shelter. A temporary green tent is visible but does not provide an indoor space suitable for large wild animals. No environmental enrichment or stimulation can be seen. One lion remains lying down without movement during the recording. The current location and welfare status of the fourth lion and the leopard remain unclear.

According to widely recognized welfare standards for captive big cats, these animals require space to move, access to shelter, appropriate social conditions and an environment that supports their physical and psychological needs. The conditions visible in Malta do not meet these basic requirements and may place the animals at risk of stress and health complications.

As an EU Member State, Malta has the responsibility to ensure that any facility holding large carnivores complies with CITES requirements and provides appropriate care. The European Commission has confirmed that every Member State must ensure that any location keeping live wild animals has suitable accommodation and care. Under Article 8 of the EU Wildlife Trade Regulation, Malta has the authority to prohibit the keeping of these animals and to intervene when welfare standards are not met.

We respectfully request the following

Immediate independent inspection of the Rabat facility and all other sites in Malta holding lions, tigers, leopards or other CITES listed species

Full transparency regarding permits, relocation decisions and compliance with CITES requirements, including enclosure standards and access to indoor shelter

Clarification on the whereabouts and welfare status of the fourth lion and the leopard reported to have been moved to Rabat

Assessment of welfare conditions following recent weather events, including lack of shade and absence of protected indoor space

Suspension of any existing permits if minimum welfare standards are not being met

Relocation of the animals to accredited sanctuaries where they can receive appropriate lifelong care

These animals cannot be safely or humanely kept in private or non specialized facilities. Their well being depends on urgent and responsible action.

We ask the Maltese authorities to provide a public response and to confirm the steps being taken to protect these animals, including those currently held in Rabat.

Targeted recipients
CITES Management Authority of Malta
Ministry for the Environment Energy and Enterprise
Veterinary and Animal Welfare Services Malta
Prime Minister of Malta

Call to supporters
Please sign and share this petition so that the authorities in Malta understand that the international community is watching and expects immediate and transparent action to protect these animals and ensure they are relocated to appropriate sanctuaries.