The classical circus is under increasing pressure from a vast array of legal and regulatory requirements, competition from television, cinema, amusement parks and other forms of entertainment, and the relentless tactics of a few well-funded activists. In 2002, ten leading European circuses founded the ECA with the certain knowledge that collective and sustained action was necessary to secure the future of the classical circus. Together ECA believes we can ensure that the circus, including the presentation of animals, continues to enchant, educate and entertain children of all ages.