Denmark moves toward a ban on animals in circuses.

The Danish government has announced it will spend $1.6 million to buy back an elephant circus, allowing the four elephants in the circus to rest and be freed. Reportedly the only remaining elephant circus in the country, this move comes as the Danish government plans to ban the use of wild animals in circuses.

According to the Minister of Fisheries and Food, Mogens Jensen, the ban on wild animals appearing in circuses is expected to take effect by the end of this year.

The four rescued elephants have been named Ramboline, Lara, Djunga, and Jenny. The department has not yet made plans for where to take the elephants once the circus disbands. However, after the news broke, several private sanctuaries have applied to take them in.

"The elephants will be sent to facilities that can provide them with the happiest possible living conditions," the Danish government announced through the Jakarta Post.

More than 40 countries have announced restrictions or bans on the use of wild animals in circuses.

Earlier this year, the UK's former Environment Minister, Michael Gove, announced a new Bill banning the use of wildlife in circuses across England. The British government argued that these inhumane forms of circus should be eradicated from modern society.

In February 2018, when the new law was announced, 94.5% of citizens supported it. This move by the UK was seen as following Scotland, which banned animals from performing in circuses in 2017.

"The public can still watch circuses, but it's good to know that wild animals will no longer be subjected to oppression during performances," said Animal Welfare Minister David Rutley.

Although the bans currently only apply to wild animals, other domesticated animals such as horses, donkeys, and dogs will be regularly inspected by officials.

Denmark's plan to shut down elephant circuses also shows that the world is paying more attention to animals and achieving many admirable results. Animals should be protected, not used for human entertainment.

Lan Oanh