Eight animal rights groups in Taiwan have called on the government to take immediate action on 10 critical animal welfare issues, including banning wild boar snares and pigeon racing on the high seas. The demand comes after years of advocacy efforts, which activists say have been met with “extremely limited” government action.
Understanding Animal Rights and the Issue at Hand
Animal rights refer to the belief that animals should be protected from suffering and exploitation. Activists in Taiwan have long fought against inhumane treatment, particularly regarding practices like hunting with metal snares and pigeon racing, which result in the deaths of thousands of animals.
Where Did This Incident Occur?
The press conference highlighting these concerns took place in Taipei, Taiwan. During the event, representatives from the Taiwan Animal Protection Monitor Network and other organizations demonstrated the cruelty of wild boar snares and exposed the dangers of pigeon racing on the open seas.
Key Issues Raised by Activists
- Wild Boar Snares (Compression Spring Snare Traps):
- These metal traps tighten around an animal’s limb with immense force, causing severe injuries or slow, painful deaths.
- Despite government claims of promoting “improved” snares, data shows they continue to harm protected species, including Formosan black bears and leopard cats.
- Activists propose using electric fences as a humane alternative to prevent wild animals from damaging crops.
- Pigeon Racing on the High Seas:
- Racing pigeons are released over the ocean and forced to navigate back to their owners.
- The survival rate is only 1-2%, meaning millions of birds perish each year due to exhaustion, harsh weather, and predation.
- Animal rights groups have repeatedly sought to ban the practice, but the Central Election Commission (CEC) has blocked their referendum proposals.
- Other Animal Welfare Issues:
- Stricter regulations on animal performances.
- Ending the chaining and caging of dogs.
- Regulating the breeding and sale of exotic pets.
What Could Change in the Future?
Animal rights groups believe that these issues can be resolved without creating new laws, as they can be addressed through government-issued administrative orders. If authorities act on their recommendations, Taiwan could see:
- A complete ban on cruel wild boar snares.
- A prohibition on pigeon racing on the open seas.
- Stronger enforcement of existing animal welfare regulations.
- More humane treatment of domestic and wild animals across Taiwan.
What is the Central Election Commission (CEC)?
The CEC is responsible for overseeing elections and referendums in Taiwan. However, activists claim the CEC has repeatedly rejected their proposals to ban cruel animal practices, often citing vague reasons. For instance, the CEC dismissed the pigeon racing ban proposal because it supposedly lacked clarity on its intent, which activists argue is an evasive response.
FAQs
What is the main demand of the animal rights groups?
They are calling for government action on 10 key animal welfare issues, including banning wild boar snares and pigeon racing on the high seas.
Where did this incident take place?
The press conference was held in Taipei, Taiwan.
Why are wild boar snares controversial?
These traps cause severe injuries and kill not only wild boars but also protected species like Formosan black bears and leopard cats.
What is the survival rate of pigeons in high-seas racing?
Only 1-2% of pigeons survive, meaning millions die each year from exhaustion, drowning, or predation.
Why did the CEC reject the animal rights referendum proposals?
The CEC claimed the proposals were unclear, but activists argue that this is a weak justification for blocking animal welfare improvements.
How can people support this cause?
People can sign petitions, spread awareness, and pressure the government to take action through social media campaigns.
