International tourists and South African citizens want to see the end of trophy hunting in favor of wildlife-friendly experiences, new research shows.
The research has been published as South Africa opens consultations on its draft White Paper on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Biodiversity in South Africa.
World Animal Protection commissioned a survey of public attitudes towards trophy hunting, surveying 10,900 people, including international tourists and South African citizens from the countries most visited South Africa.
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The survey showed a general backlash against the bloody campaign and a desire to fund the protection of the nation’s iconic wildlife through non-lethal alternatives such as responsible wildlife tourism.
Key findings:
84% of international tourists agree that the South African government should prioritize wildlife-friendly tourism over trophy hunting.
74% of international tourists believe that making trophy hunting an important policy pillar will damage South Africa’s reputation, and 72% will give up visiting the country entirely.
Seven in 10 South African citizens agree their country would become a more attractive tourist destination if they banned trophy hunting
74% of South African citizens agree that trophy hunting is unacceptable without fully utilizing wildlife-friendly tourism alternatives.
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Nick Stewart, global head of wildlife campaigns at World Animal Protection, said: “The white paper aims to create a prosperous nation that lives in harmony with nature and protects biodiversity for present and future generations, and it is a good start.
“But it lacks a clear or tangible commitment to ending the global commercial wildlife trade, which includes breeding lions in captivity, using big cats for traditional medicine and trophy hunting.
“The Republic of South Africa needs to take decisive action towards a more wildlife-friendly future.”
He added: “It is not too late for them to seize the opportunity to take a stand and fully embrace non-lethal wildlife-friendly alternatives, including responsible wildlife tourism, which is clearly sought by international tourists and local people alike .
“It’s time for a public, time-bound commitment to stop hunting trophies — forever. ”
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Edith Kabesiime, Wildlife Sports Manager (Africa) at World Animal Protection said: “A wildlife life is worth more than the trophy it often reduces to.
“It’s a common sentiment among tourists who want to visit the country to see wildlife in full bloom, and South Africa who wants to see incredible wildlife on their doorstep, in a humane and ethical way, and properly protected. people.
