Debate Heats Up in Germany Over Mandatory Barn Confinement Amid Bird Flu Outbreak

Germany is currently grappling with a surge in avian influenza cases, prompting intense debate about implementing mandatory barn confinement (Stallpflicht) for poultry to curb the spread of the virus. This regulatory measure is especially discussed in Baden-Württemberg, one of the hardest-hit states. Over 200,000 birds—including chickens, geese, and turkeys—have already been culled this autumn as part of containment efforts, highlighting the outbreak's severity.

Green Party agricultural politician Zoe Mayer advocates for enhanced animal protection measures, emphasizing that reducing animal density in farming operations could lower infection rates and decrease reliance on antibiotics. She argues that without a fundamental reform of the animal husbandry system, mass culling will remain a recurring necessity.

The ongoing discussions underline a broader need for structural changes in German poultry farming to manage disease risks more effectively. These steps aim to safeguard animal health and mitigate future outbreaks, amid growing concerns among farmers and policymakers alike. (Sources: 116322, 116316)