Non-Human Animals as Victims of Crime

Abstract

The movements advocating for the rights of non-human animals have their origins in ancient times, albeit their relevance in the present day. Given that relevance, and since Victimology typically centers solely on human experiences, there's the need for an approach that extends beyond humanity to recognize victimization's broader dimensions. With that in mind, this chapter focuses on dismantling the anthropocentric perspective on crime, emphasizing the crucial need to extend consideration to non-human animals as well. By challenging the status quo, it aims to prompt a shift toward incorporating non-human animals into our comprehension of criminality, and, therefore, advocates for the recognition of the rights of non-human animals. In summary, this chapter argues for a more comprehensive understanding of crime, that encompasses both human and non-human experiences, and highlights the importance of studying this type of violence within the field of Criminology, benefiting not only the scientific community but also extending support to victims who, for a long time, have been overlooked.