The demonstration, organized by the animal rights party PACMA, represents a new chapter in the ongoing debate surrounding the use of these animals in Mijas Pueblo. The protest is scheduled for Sunday at 11:00 AM at the Mirador Hermanos Andreu.
The donkey-taxi service in Mijas originated in the 1960s when tourists began requesting rides from local workers returning from their fields. The generosity of visitors led many residents to leave their jobs and formally establish this mode of transport.
In recent years, this practice has become increasingly contentious. Animal welfare groups, such as PACMA, argue that the donkeys are kept in conditions that prevent proper rest and freedom of movement. They claim that the animals are controlled by ropes while working and remain tethered to fences during their rest periods.
“"We cannot allow this treatment in the 21st century."
Under the slogan 'Cut their rope', PACMA is leading this protest with the aim of freeing the donkeys from a job that, in their view, infringes on their well-being. However, many local residents defend the service, considering it a deeply ingrained tradition that attracts tourism to the town.
The animal rights party suggests that Mijas's tourist appeal would be maintained without the donkey-taxis, proposing their replacement with tuk-tuks to facilitate visitor mobility. Furthermore, they advocate for the creation of sanctuaries where the animals can retire and live in peace. Some donkeys that previously worked in Mijas are already residing in rescue centers, such as Donkey Dreamland, a sanctuary nestled in the town's hills.
Given the opposing viewpoints, a police presence is anticipated during the protest. Although various animal welfare regulations have been implemented, including provisions for rest, shade, water access, and veterinary care, and more recently, in April 2025, stricter rules regarding heat, PACMA considers these measures insufficient.
