The Green Party and the Animal Party have called out airlines for refusing to transport pets belonging to Cypriot and Greek nationals from the United Arab Emirates, leaving animals stranded in Dubai as their owners attempt to flee the regional conflict. The complaint raises serious ethical questions — particularly in wartime and emergency conditions.
In a crisis, the ability to travel with a pet is not a mere convenience. For people forced to abandon their homes under emergency conditions, it is a matter of psychological welfare. Pets are family members — and their safety matters just as much.
Airlines may have their operational reasons for refusing to carry animals. But in circumstances such as these, they have an obligation to work urgently with the relevant authorities to revisit their policies and ensure that, under no circumstances, are pets left behind.
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