Save the Asian elephants

As the founder of Save The Asian Elephants and the drafter of the groundbreaking Animals (Low-Welfare Activities Abroad) Act, I am calling on the new Labour Government to take immediate action to enact this crucial legislation.

The Act, which received Royal Assent from King Charles III in a remarkably swift two hours, represents a significant step forward in protecting animals from exploitation in tourist activities abroad. However, its potential remains unrealised without proper implementation.

The urgency of this matter cannot be overstated. 

Suffering for tourists

Every day that passes without concrete action, countless animals continue to suffer for the sake of tourist entertainment. The recent admission by renowned naturalist Chris Packham that he regrets riding an elephant on holiday in the past highlights a growing awareness of the ethical issues surrounding animal tourism.

Packham’s candid reflection serves as a poignant reminder that many well-meaning tourists have unknowingly contributed to animal suffering, often due to a lack of information or awareness.

A disturbing poll reveals that one in three Britons have witnessed animal cruelty at tourist attractions abroad, with many experiencing guilt over their participation or observation. This statistic underscores the pervasive nature of the problem and the moral burden it places on unsuspecting travellers. 

The rise of selfie culture has only exacerbated the situation, with the quest for the perfect social media post often trumping considerations of animal welfare.

Taking responsibility

While the passage of the Animals (Low-Welfare Activities Abroad) Act last year was a significant milestone, specifying banned activities is what STAE and it’s partners and now working on.

This is where I implore ABTA, the UK’s leading travel association, to step up and play a crucial role in defining the particular activities are prohibited under the Act. 

ABTA’s expertise and influence in the travel industry make it an ideal partner in this endeavour, and their cooperation will significantly expedite the process of implementing the law.

To make real progress, STAE demands a comprehensive list of banned activities that cause undue harm to animals. 

This list must include, but not be limited to, elephant riding, tiger cub petting, dolphin shows, and other attractions that prioritise human entertainment over animal welfare. 

By clearly delineating these activities, we can provide both travellers and the tourism industry with unambiguous guidelines, leaving no room for misinterpretation or exploitation of loopholes.

In the meantime, all tourists must take personal responsibility. 

We must refuse to spend money on experiences that might cause animal suffering, conduct thorough research before participating in any animal-related activities, and report incidents of animal cruelty to reputable organisations. 

It’s crucial to remember that our ethical standards regarding animal treatment should not change simply because we are on holiday.