Target: Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Vietnam
Goal: Secure the immediate release of bears trapped in cruel conditions in bear bile farms across Vietnam.
Animal welfare is being severely compromised as reports indicate that bears continue to be kept in appalling conditions for the extraction of their bile, a practice that has been banned in Vietnam but still persists. Despite the Vietnamese government’s efforts to prohibit this inhumane treatment, as many as 125 bears reportedly remain trapped in cramped enclosures where they suffer immensely. These bears have allegedly been chained for decades, confined in cages so small that they cannot turn around, with four bears dying each month due to neglect or insufficient care. Concerts held by advocates like musician Rick Wakeman highlight the tragic plight of these bears and call for immediate action.
The extraction of bile, which is performed using needles inserted into the gall bladder, not only inflicts unbearable pain on these animals but also contributes to a devastating decline in the Asiatic black bear population. Over the last 30 years, nearly one-third of their numbers have been lost worldwide. While sanctuaries like Animals Asia provide rehabilitation for rescued bears, the urgent need to release those still held captive is apparent.
Immediate action is essential to ensure that the remaining bears receive the care and freedom they deserve. The continued existence of bear bile farming not only contravenes ethical standards but also threatens biodiversity. The government must enforce stricter regulations to release the bears still suffering in captivity and to prevent the illegal wildlife trade from continuing. This petition demands that the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development takes swift action to end the inhumane captivity of bears for bile extraction once and for all.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development,
Reports indicate that numerous bears continue to endure a life of misery in bear bile farms across Vietnam despite the government’s ban on this cruel practice. These animals are allegedly kept in cramped, filthy conditions, with many chained in cages where they cannot turn around, leading to slow and painful deaths. With as many as 125 bears still trapped and suffering, it is imperative that immediate action is taken to secure their release into appropriate sanctuaries.
We urge you to take decisive steps to uphold the promise of animal welfare by ensuring that all remaining bears in captivity are released to sanctuaries where they can live free from harm. The suffering of these creatures must end, and it is your responsibility to lead the way in creating a safer, more humane future for them.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Asian Animal Protection Network
