(De)politicizing animal-related policies and rights: discourses and institutional dynamics in Finnish city councils

Abstract

This study examines how animal-related concerns are (de)politicized within the city councils of Helsinki, Tampere, and Joensuu (Finland). Using critical discourse analysis (CDA), it identifies four discourses: (1) animals as resources, (2) animals as subjects of consideration, (3) animals as part of nature and city environments, and (4) animals as emissions. The findings show that animal-related policy concerns were often addressed without reference to animals. They became politicized when linked to broader agendas, such as climate, health, culture, or economy, but otherwise tended to be treated as technical or administrative matters. Animal rights concerns were rarely politicized and often absent. The study advances debates in animal politics and critical policy studies by demonstrating how discursive and institutional structures delimit political space while also revealing openings for more inclusive policymaking.