Russia's One Year Ban on Harp Seal Pup Hunt
Canada Unlikely to Follow Suit Despite International Pressure
Mar 19, 2009
The Russian decision to halt their pup seal hunt is yet another blow to Canada’s seal hunting position as the European Union will soon be voting on whether to ban seal products. While the EU ban may be fought before the World Trade Organization on the grounds that it violates international trade law, the attitude toward hunting seal pups for pelts is clearly changing.
Russian Celebrities and Activists Work Together on Ban
In Russia, animal activist groups have used media stars to aid their cause. By taking the celebrities to the Archangelsk region they were able to capitalize on the stark images of the seal hunt. Those who watched seal pups being clubbed to death not only spoke out against the hunt. They are helping initiate alternative employment for those affected by the ban. Tourism is one avenue being pursued for the area.
But the ban is only for one year and only on harp seal (Pagophilus groenlandicus) pups less than one year of age. Older seals may be harvested for meat and other products. Whether the ban continues will depend on how the people of the Archangelsk area fare during this year and how the international community reacts.
Market for Seal Hunt Products has been Declining
The market for seal products has been steadily dropping over the years. Prices for pelts have gone from $105USD to $33USD. And there is some question as to whether the Canadian government has actually had to subsidize the hunt in the last few years.
The European Union Ban on Seal Products
The ban on seal products in EU countries, which was approved by the European Parliament’s internal market committee covers all seal products: fur skins, organs, blubber, oil and meat. Included in the products from seals are some of the Omega 3 fatty acid supplements sold over the counter as well as some leather gear used by motorcyclists and skiers.
Excluded from the ban are products from Inuit and Native American communities in Greenland, Canada, Russia and the United States. Items not banned are those used for cultural, educational or ceremonial purposes.
If approved by the entire EU Assembly and individual country governments, the ban will become law in April 2009. But this is not guaranteed either. Denmark, Sweden and Finland have already spoken out against the ban.
Even if there is no subsidy, the EU ban and increasing awareness of how the hunt is conducted is likely to continue to cause a decline in the market for seal products. The Russian ban on hunting seal pups for pelts for a year seems to be a step toward ending the seal hunt but it is just a beginning.
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