EU Survey: Strong Rejection of Kangaroo Products

A recent independent survey conducted by PureProfile among more than 5’000 residents in Italy, Germany, Belgium, France and the Netherlands found that 75% of respondents believe the EU and/or their countries are responsible for preventing the commercial slaughter of Australian wildlife when it involves cruelty or poses an ecological threat.

Furthermore, three in four respondents support an import ban on kangaroo products if climate change threatens kangaroo populations. The survey also revealed broad support for ending the trade in order to respect Indigenous cultures and comply with international treaties.

First Nations Demand End to Trade

These findings reflect the concerns raised by Back to Country (BTC), an Australian Aboriginal non-profit organisation, during its tour of Europe. BTC met with parliamentary representatives in Italy, Belgium and the Netherlands and subsequently spoke before the Intergroup on the Welfare and Conservation of Animals in the European Parliament in Strasbourg. At each meeting, BTC highlighted the deep spiritual and cultural connection that kangaroos represent for Australia's Indigenous peoples, and called on the EU to stop the cruel trade in kangaroo products.

Broad Support from Animal Welfare Organisations

Around 80 global animal welfare, conservation, veterinary and rescue groups, including the Eurogroup for Animals and its members, World Animal Protection, Voiceless, LAV and GAIA, have signed a declaration calling for an end to this cruel practice. Animal rights must also be consistently enforced in international trade.

It is time for the EU, as the largest importer of kangaroo products, to act and finally put an end to this cruel trade, which raises serious concerns regarding animal welfare, public health and the environment.