A Historic Win for Dolphins in the Netherlands!

Dolfinarium Harderwijk in the Netherlands began construction in 1955 and opened to the public in 1965. It became an important centre for captive dolphin breeding in Europe, participating in breeding programs and exchanging dolphins with other facilities around the world.

On October 14, 2026, the Dutch government announced plans for a legally enforced breeding ban and a gradual phase-out of keeping dolphins in captivity. The aim is to ensure that the current generation of dolphins in the Netherlands will be the last. Although the legislation still needs to be developed, the announcement marks a major step forward for dolphin welfare.

This is a huge win for dolphins!

Ric O’Barry addresses the Dutch Parliament on the issue of keeping dolphins and other whales in captivity

After decades of captive breeding and supplying dolphins to other captive facilities, the Netherlands is moving towards a future in which no more dolphins will be born into captivity. It is a historic step towards ending the cycle of keeping marine mammals in concrete tanks for human entertainment.

For years, Dolphin Project has supported local efforts to end dolphin captivity. In 2016, Founder/Director Ric O’Barry addressed members of the Dutch Parliament in The Hague, calling for the captivity of dolphins and other whales to be abolished.

Featured image: Ric and Helene O’Barry support dutch activists during a protest at Harderwijk.