7. September 2026, 08:36

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Petition: No lynx kills in Valais

The canton of Valais is the first canton in Switzerland to prepare an official application to be allowed to kill lynxes this coming winter. State Councillor Christophe Darbellay, himself a recreational hunter, justifies the move by citing declining roe deer and chamois populations in Upper Valais. What goes unmentioned is that the Eurasian lynx in Switzerland is genetically severely depleted: According to KORA, Alpine lynxes have lost 46 percent of the genetic diversity of their ancestors. Specialist agencies are therefore calling for a genetic refreshment of the population, not its reduction. Just how drastic the effects of this inbreeding can be is shown by the documented case of a lynx without ears in the Jura, whose malformation experts attribute to the species' genetic depletion.

What's more: it is precisely in Valais that the lynx has been systematically poached for decades. A peer-reviewed study by the University of Bern, published in 2021, documented a network of 17 snare traps in the lynx's only migration corridor into Valais – more on this in the dossier on poaching and hunting crime in Switzerland. Pro Natura Valais also points out that around 1,000 roe deer are shot annually in the canton by recreational hunting itself. Scientific proof that the lynx is to blame for the decline in populations is lacking. What wildlife policy can look like without the conflict of interest between authorities and recreational hunting has been demonstrated by the canton of Geneva for over 50 years.

We demand an immediate withdrawal of the kill application and a scientifically sound wildlife policy in Valais, independent of recreational hunting.

Link: Valais wants to shoot lynx for the first time – even though the species is genetically at its limit

👉 Canton of Valais – address list of cantonal parliament members with email addresses – Write to your politician personally.

The petition is addressed to: State Councillor Christophe Darbellay, Grand Council of the Canton of Valais, Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN)

Dear State Councillor Darbellay
Dear Members of the Grand Council of the Canton of Valais
Dear Ladies and Gentlemen of the Federal Office for the Environment

I am writing to you with great concern, because the canton of Valais is preparing, for the first time in Switzerland, an official application for the regulation, that is, the killing, of lynxes.

The Eurasian lynx in Switzerland is not a robust species but a genetically depleted one. Swiss lynxes descend from a small number of founder animals from the Slovak Carpathians, some of them closely related. According to the specialist agency for predator ecology KORA, Alpine lynxes have lost 46 percent of the genetic diversity of their ancestors, and those in the Jura 30 percent. Inbreeding is already an existential problem today, evidenced among other things by increased heart murmurs in affected animals and by the documented case of a lynx without ears in the Jura, whose malformation is attributed to the species' genetic depletion. KORA and the Institute for Fish and Wildlife Health (FIWI) state that the population must be genetically refreshed in the medium term. To apply for a kill precisely now reverses this expert logic.

The canton of Valais is also not neutral ground when it comes to the lynx. An international research team led by Prof. Raphaël Arlettaz (University of Bern) demonstrated in 2021, in «Frontiers in Conservation Science», that the low lynx population in Lower Valais is due to systematic poaching. A network of 17 snare traps was found in the lynx's only migration corridor into Valais, some of them still operational. It took 20 years from the first indications to the first conviction of a hunter for lynx poaching.

To this day, there is no scientific proof that the lynx is responsible for the decline in roe deer and chamois populations in Valais. According to Pro Natura Valais, around 1,000 roe deer are shot annually in the canton by recreational hunting itself. The lynx also fulfils an important ecological function by keeping game on the move and thus protecting the forest from excessive browsing damage.

I call on you to:

Not to submit the application for regulation, i.e. for the killing of lynxes in Valais, as long as the species is genetically at its limit according to KORA and FIWI.

To take consistent action against the documented lynx poaching in the canton, instead of further regulating an already decimated population.

To disclose the conflicts of interest of officials who, as recreational hunters, decide on or have prepared kill applications for strictly protected species.

Any application to the Federal Office for the Environment must be rejected, since roe deer and chamois as prey animals primarily serve as a food source for the predators themselves, not for recreational hunting.

Yours sincerely

896 of 5,000 signatures

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I signed because...

  • «I want the decimation of the endangered lynxes in Valais to stop»

    Franz D. · 04.09.2026

  • «...the lynx has a right to life too!»

    Adom C. L. · 03.09.2026

  • «With a great deal of effort, commitment and money, the lynx became native again. To shoot it now is a disgrace!»

    Maja Z. · 03.09.2026

  • «I am Swiss, born in Aarau, lived in ZH and AG, now a Swiss expatriate. I love and respect animals and nature. A. Rösti and his entourage are out of place, disregard the law and the will of the people, are lying lobbyist henchmen, animal abusers.»

    Kron H. · 03.09.2026

  • «Because there is no biological reason.»

    Daniela B. · 02.09.2026

  • «I am signing because I can no longer bear the violence against everything living. Animals are sentient beings, and unlike us humans, predators only take what they need to live. Nothing more! They need protection from humans' insatiable greed and delusional need for control. The lynx and the wolf belong to nature!»

    Regina M. · 01.09.2026

  • «I am a veterinarian, bioethicist and conservationist advocating the protection of all wild carnivores from a One Health perspective of optimizing biodiversity»

    Michael F. · 01.09.2026

  • «animals too are divine beings and have a right to life»

    Claudia Z. · 27.08.2026

  • «In Germany, there are constant complaints about too many roe deer – which are said to be preventing climate-friendly forest conversion. I would be glad if we had lynxes here. Beautiful cats that, unlike the wolf, pose no danger whatsoever to, say, forest kindergartens.»

    Maximilian B. · 26.08.2026

Read more (292)
  • «Every animal has a right to live. Humans are the real troublemakers!!!!»

    Gaby E. · 25.08.2026

  • «More and more people despise “hunters”, because every year more than 1,000,000 animals are killed by hunters in Austria alone, a small country. Domestic and wild animals, many millions across Europe. Many of them abandoned, specially bred and tame. A large number are only injured during hunting and die slowly and painfully. Hunters are permitted to shoot dogs and cats even at short distances from the nearest house and to kill trapped pets on the spot. Hunting accidents involving injury to humans are also on the rise.»

    Robert K. · 25.08.2026

  • «There is the commandment \"Thou shalt not kill!\" This also extends to our fellow creatures.»

    Monika L. · 24.08.2026

  • «Because we have no right to place ourselves above animals, including wild ones.»

    Jürg S. · 24.08.2026

  • «All living beings have a right to life.»

    Astrid O. · 24.08.2026

  • «Because protected native species, especially those with a low population, should not be hunted. Regardless of whether they have migrated back on their own or the species was reintroduced.»

    Beat B. · 23.08.2026

  • «I do not agree to the shooting of lynxes and call for their complete protection»

    Aneta P. · 21.08.2026

  • «The protection of rare (predatory) animals concerns all of us. They are regulators of ecosystems»

    jasmin R. · 17.08.2026

  • «I sign this because THIS ANIMAL had the right to live, every animal has the right to live and no one has the right to shoot it, whoever does this should be punished, I am for the protection of all animals and nature and poaching should be forbidden and eliminated, this poaching is bestial, this poor animal, the lynx had the right to life, what did it do to him that he had to kill it, such people must be punished, STOP violence against animals, STOP poaching and shooting, this person has no heart or feelings, no scruples, he killed it and threw it into the river, for me this is a terrible sight, such a beautiful female lynx, how could he do this, man is sometimes worse than animals because it is man who harms them, not animals harming man, STOP killing animals»

    Marzena K. · 16.08.2026

  • «I sign because it is bestial to shoot at lynxes and other animals, such a person should be punished and not get away with it without punishment, what did this poor beautiful animal do to him that he shot it and so perfidiously threw it into the water, what a horror, every animal has the right to live, poor animals, people are terrible, it's time to change this, to take these rights seriously, it cannot go on like this, ban hunting and shooting, it is disgusting and I feel revulsion towards such people who shoot, I am opposed to shooting and poaching, this must end so that further animals do not perish, STOP violence against ANIMALS, you have no right to kill them, people who do such things have no heart or scruples, the crime should be punished, PUNISHMENT for the perpetrators of shooting and poaching against animals, all animals, I am with all my heart for the PROTECTION of animals and nature, and may our State finally do something about this and forbid harming animals, so that something finally changes because so far nothing has changed. I am for ANIMAL PROTECTION»

    Marzena K. · 16.08.2026

  • «I am signing because it matters to me to love, respect and accept animals alongside our existence as human beings. I like to share with nature and animals. Without them we cannot survive.»

    Susan P. · 14.08.2026

  • «To curb genetic changes, there are also other, less bloodthirsty options: sedate and sterilise the lynxes concerned, so that reproduction with \"wrong\" genes is no longer possible. Is Switzerland a \"civilised\" country? Then please prove this through humane action and stop this massacre!»

    Suzanna v. · 13.08.2026

  • «The lynx has a positive influence on nature! To the dismay of the hunters!»

    Frouwiena R. · 12.08.2026

  • «…because I am an animal welfare advocate and we are taking away the animals' habitat!!!!!»

    Monika L. · 12.08.2026

  • «I am signing because the lynx is an important part of our nature. This motion is renewed proof that even \"high-ranking\" hunters and politicians lack a basic understanding of the ecology of native wild animals.»

    Jan K. · 12.08.2026

  • «Apparently recreational hunting is just as horrific in Switzerland as it is in Germany. This madness must finally come to an end!»

    Gaby S. · 12.08.2026

  • «It cannot be that animals must always give way just because it doesn't suit someone.»

    Noah C. · 12.08.2026

  • «The lynx is an important part of a healthy wildlife population and must under no circumstances be hunted.»

    Christen I. · 12.08.2026

  • «Because every life is unique and should be protected, not extinguished!»

    Irena B. · 11.08.2026

  • «All animals have a right to life. Lynxes are more important than hunters' bloodlust.»

    Ingrid C. · 11.08.2026

  • «Because it cannot be that other animals are held responsible for humanity's overhunting»

    Sandra M. · 11.08.2026

  • «why cannot people enjoy these animals rather than shoot them? They are seen mostly at night - the hunters need only to stay in bed!»

    Peter S. · 11.08.2026

  • «Because the lynx is still a highly endangered species. It belongs to nature and has a right to be here. This mindless killing must come to an end.»

    Peter E. · 11.08.2026

  • «All animals matter»

    Blanca L. · 11.08.2026

  • «This species is on the verge of extinction and must be protected. We currently have a terrible loss of species, and it must not continue like this.»

    Stephanie G. · 11.08.2026

  • «I find it almost unbearable that these animals are still being hunted, or rather are allowed to be hunted again! It is irresponsible to approve such a thing!!!»

    Gretel S. · 10.08.2026

  • «I want to help protect the lynxes. This issue concerns all of us, not just Switzerland!»

    Ingrid F. · 10.08.2026

  • «Because the lynx is a highly endangered species. Moreover, sheep and other livestock losses caused by the lynx correspond to only a fraction of the losses during the alpine season due to other causes (falls, illness, going missing).»

    Nicolo P. · 10.08.2026

  • «Because I am for the lynx»

    Yvonne K. · 09.08.2026

  • «The lynx is extremely rare in Italy. Protecting the specimens you have in Switzerland means contributing to the protection of ecosystems, from a global conservation perspective. We can no longer make decisions only with regard to the territory in which we live; the consequences now affect the whole planet. Thank you for your attention.»

    Laura C. · 09.08.2026

  • «Because the lynx belongs to nature and has a right to life just like every human being. Who can kill such a beautiful animal?!?!»

    Regina Z. · 08.08.2026

  • «Because animals have no voice.»

    Carmen B. · 06.08.2026

  • «Because it's important! And I love animals 💚»

    Ann Kathrin S. · 05.08.2026

  • «… because I am absolutely against any extinction of our flora and fauna on our planet, for we owe them “our existence”. Out of greed for power and profit, all of this is unfortunately repeatedly ignored and also forgotten 😔😡.»

    Evelin H. · 04.08.2026

  • «I find it terrible that more and more protected species are simply being gunned down without any apparent or sustainable reason. The real beast is man, he is destroying the whole earth and still considers himself more intelligent than the animals.»

    Klaudia S. · 03.08.2026

  • «I signed because I am against the hunting lobby becoming ever more powerful, and I am against any violence towards animals.»

    Madeleine K. · 03.08.2026

  • «I sign because I simply find it TERRIBLE that humanity doesn't get it, perhaps only when it's too late!»

    Juri L. · 02.08.2026

  • «I sign because I am fundamentally opposed to the shy lynx being eliminated in Switzerland. It has a right to a species-appropriate life in our country just as we humans do. It is outrageous how the hunting lobby, particularly in the cantons of Valais and Grisons, is driving forward the disappearance of the lynx, and unfortunately with the support of Federal Councillor Albert Rösti. These activities must be stopped swiftly.»

    Brigitte R. · 01.08.2026

  • «I sign because I consider this unbearable hunting policy of an A. Rösti, who is the one making these ambitions in Valais possible in the first place, to be despicable! It is proof of a disaster that is only possible through incompetence and ignorance combined with power... I am ashamed of this misappointment in the Federal Council!»

    Susanne O. · 01.08.2026

  • «This gunning down must finally be stopped!!!»

    Sonja S. · 01.08.2026

  • «I sign because it is important for a healthy forest There is always complaining There are too many ungulates That's what the wolf and the lynx are for They have the same right as we humans! Yes, I am no friend of Valais There they shoot at anything that doesn't suit them!»

    Esther B. · 31.07.2026

  • «I like lynxes and they regulate nature. It really is a joke that hobby(!) hunters want to push through this decision. Nature and its animals should not be controlled at the expense of someone's fun.»

    Mirjam G. · 31.07.2026

  • «Lynxes are valuable wild animals, hunting them is a sacrilege!»

    Thomas D. · 31.07.2026

  • «Because there is no reasonable reason to shoot lynxes, but many reasons against it. To do something about declining chamois and roe deer populations, it would be better to reduce hunting of these animals rather than shoot dead the lynxes, which hunt chamois and roe deer for their survival.»

    Martin M. · 31.07.2026

  • «Lynxes are a protected species. It cannot be that the canton of Valais wants to change this just because there are too few chamois and roe deer. In that case, the hunters simply need to lower the kill quota. I will avoid Valais and Grisons as holiday regions. These cantons do not respect animal welfare.»

    Oliver S. · 30.07.2026

  • «...animals, like us humans, have a right to life and to reside in the regions they choose. The right to life is an absolute value and outweighs profit-driven thinking, also and especially for animals. Only once humans protect animals instead of killing them may they call themselves intelligent.»

    Wolf-D. R. · 29.07.2026

  • «I am signing this and other petitions against recreational hunting, because killing as a leisure activity no longer has a place in our world and must be abolished.»

    Michaela F. · 29.07.2026

  • «I am signing because there is no reason to shoot these wonderful lynxes and thereby wipe them out. And because I am fed up with the bloodthirsty recreational hunters who allow themselves to kill rare animals. Why not protect them, why simply shoot and destroy everything.»

    Aline P. · 28.07.2026

  • «…. I want a healthy lynx population, and only this way can the population of this large cat be secured in Switzerland in the long term!»

    Eliane W. · 28.07.2026

  • «…. genetic diversity for the lynx population in Switzerland is enormously important - preserve this beautiful large cat in our Switzerland.»

    Stefan W. · 28.07.2026

  • «I have nothing but contempt for the hunting lobby and its politicians...!»

    Nicole B. · 28.07.2026

  • «The human species wants to eliminate everything it dislikes, but the Earth is a symbiosis that is being systematically destroyed»

    Ulrike S. · 28.07.2026

  • «Appreciation of all living beings, fellow beings - we have no right to exploit or even kill others. Luxembourg has stopped hunting foxes and they have a smaller and healthy population. So»

    Malima-Martha V. · 28.07.2026

  • «Because the lynx must be protected worldwide»

    Walter G. · 25.07.2026

  • «Blaming the lynx for the decline in roe deer numbers is simply absurd. Just so the hunters can shoot down 1000 of them! Simply sick, this whole thing!»

    Peter B. · 24.07.2026

  • «Because scientifically substantiated statements should count first, not the wishes of recreational hunters»

    Max D. · 24.07.2026

  • «Only living animals bring joy to people.»

    Veronika M. · 22.07.2026

  • «A rethinking of the relationship between humans, animals and nature is urgently needed. How exactly the lynx, given its endangered survival status, could be a threat to humans and their cultivated land, such that hunting of this solitary animal should be allowed again, is incomprehensible and can only be driven by ideology and lobbying.»

    Karin K. · 20.07.2026

  • «Because every life is valuable»

    Carolin P. · 19.07.2026

  • «I am signing the petition because I do not consider the hunting of lynx relevant only to Valais. The large distances of their migratory movements and the small lynx population, and thus also its genetic diversity, endanger the international populations. It is more than overdue that a rethinking of our relationship with nature is set in motion. Kind regards»

    Peter G. · 19.07.2026

  • «Because we do not have the right to torment animals and kill them for fun. That is against the will of creation and of common sense.»

    Ilka J. · 17.07.2026

  • «Lynxes are extremely rare and sensitive. Across Europe they are present at far below natural levels. There is no need for absurd kills here.. but rather EU-wide stable populations. This means also in Switzerland, which is geographically European and will remain so. EU-wide cooperation is imperative here. Especially also from a legal-ethical perspective. Lynxes have their own right to life, they belong to themselves, like all animals living in the wild. This means that a kill amounts to targeted animal murder and appropriation of property. So it amounts to murder for gain... here committed against lynxes. For ethical and other scientific reasons there is no sustainable right to the murder of animals and murder-for-gain committed against animals.. that would be despotic appropriation.»

    Peter L. · 17.07.2026

  • «...because it simply makes no sense.»

    Thomas W. · 17.07.2026

  • «Animals are people too»

    Walter G. · 17.07.2026

  • «Because the lynx is urgently needed! And it was here long before us humans, and we wiped it out once, and now we want to wipe it out again! Have we completely lost our minds?!»

    Beatrice C. · 17.07.2026

  • «The lynx has a right to exist in Switzerland.»

    Werner M. · 16.07.2026

  • «...I love wildlife closely and know about the importance of our wild animals for our damaged ecosystem! Also, killing never solves problems! On the contrary!»

    Jutta K. · 16.07.2026

  • «...the lynx must be protected as a natural part of nature»

    Uwe H. · 16.07.2026

  • «Because animal welfare knows no borders»

    Annelie G. · 15.07.2026

  • «Because Switzerland does not respect its wildlife at all. Only its stupid alpine pastures for meat production matter to them. Switzerland and its image as an animal hater. How can anyone hunt such a rare animal as the lynx...»

    Sarah S. · 14.07.2026

  • «Hunting is a crime! Hunting rare creatures is even worse! The human is the problem.»

    Michele M. · 14.07.2026

  • «Lynxes are our beautiful big cats! What a shame to want to kill such beauty!»

    Dany P. · 09.07.2026

  • «We do not have the right to kill everything. The human is the biggest problem.»

    Theres H. · 08.07.2026

  • «I don't understand it, first they are reintroduced and now that they are becoming too numerous, you want to shoot them down. There must surely be other alternatives to this solution, how about castration? I know it costs a lot more than a bullet, but that would be my suggestion.»

    Brigitte T. · 08.07.2026

  • «First reintroduce them into the wild, then shoot them down...!!!!! This cannot be right!!!!! Typical Darbellay!!!!! IT'S JUST TOO MUCH!!!!!»

    Silvia K. · 08.07.2026

  • «Because hunting is a dangerous gathering place for people who should never be allowed to hold a weapon»

    Janine C. · 08.07.2026

  • «I find it sad because every living being has a right to live. Where do they get the right to simply decide to shoot these lynxes.»

    Ursula P. · 08.07.2026

  • «Because I think it is a great outrage to shoot the lynxes. The canton of Valais is well known for shooting everything, it is a disgrace for the whole of Switzerland»

    Karin S. · 08.07.2026

  • «Because we humans have already wiped out and cleared enough, enough is enough!!!»

    Kerstin B. · 07.07.2026

  • «Because I reject recreational hunting and abhor the pleasure of killing»

    Prisca K. · 07.07.2026

  • «Wild animals have rights too !!!! Recreational hunting must be banned !!!!»

    Ahma N. · 07.07.2026

  • «Lynxes should be allowed to live»

    Helmuth F. · 07.07.2026

  • «Animals are living, sentient beings. They have familial ties, know fear and pain, grieve deaths of their relatives, raise their young with great care and have as much right to live peacefully as humans do. To take their lives in the form of government sanctioned culling is a callous, cruel and inhumane, not to mention a crime against nature, biodiversity, ecology and the environment. Stop this insanity.»

    Gerald H. · 07.07.2026

  • «Right to life for animals too. Nature is for everyone.»

    Kathrin S. · 07.07.2026

  • «Because the lynx is a wonderful animal and was reintroduced in Switzerland. Why should it then be shot, this is paradoxical and terrible»

    Eva B. · 07.07.2026

  • «The lynx belongs in our nature and was already here before us humans!»

    Urs A. · 07.07.2026

  • «Lynxes absolutely must continue to be comprehensively protected. Arbitrary killings are completely pointless-!»

    Anke W. · 07.07.2026

  • «Because nature, with all its wild animals, must be protected»

    Cornelia L. · 06.07.2026

  • «Sad that this petition is necessary. Dedicated, knowledgeable people have been working on reintroduction for so many years — a very demanding task. Lynx are shy and pose no threat to humans. They are frugal and return to a kill over several days to feed. If poachers were fought with the same energy as nature and its creatures, we would certainly have a better chance of seeing this beautiful animal in the wild...»

    Françoise R. · 06.07.2026

  • «Because we need the lynx to regulate wildlife populations, not humans.»

    Sonja R. · 06.07.2026

  • «Because the canton of Valais simply wants to shoot everything so that the recreational hunters don't go away empty-handed, and they don't have the wolf problem under control. For example, State Councillor and recreational hunter Christophe Darbellay has his fellow hunters march out after every wolf attack without checking whether the livestock was properly protected. Now the lynx is basically to be exterminated, after which it will probably be the badger or the fox's turn. Around 1,000 roe deer were shot by recreational hunters in 2025 — of course the lynx is a huge nuisance then, and the poor recreational hunters might go away empty-handed.»

    Pollinger Y. · 06.07.2026

  • «Killing animals is barbaric!!! Hunting should be completely banned!!!»

    Rebecca H. · 06.07.2026

  • «Hunting animals is cruel and unnecessary!!!!»

    Iris N. · 05.07.2026

  • «Whenever we try to regulate everything, it usually goes wrong. No pointless kills that achieve nothing. Humans shouldn't interfere everywhere.»

    Andreas S. · 05.07.2026

  • «Every species in our world fulfils a purpose in its environment, and we do not, because we have fallen out of balance and can simply blast away wildly around us, destroying even more as a result. We should be grateful for every life that returns, ready to take up its role again and thereby help heal the system.»

    Karin R. · 05.07.2026

  • «It is barbaric and absolutely no longer appropriate to kill wild predators so that one can have more animals to kill for pleasure. In my view, recreational hunting should be completely banned.»

    Yvonne B. · 05.07.2026

  • «Animals need our voice in order to survive.»

    Anja J. · 05.07.2026

  • «I'm signing because I am opposed to hunting.»

    Constantin M. · 05.07.2026

  • «Because there are NOT TOO MANY animals!»

    Jacqueline P. · 05.07.2026

  • «Predators are also part of a healthy wildlife population!»

    Nadine J. · 05.07.2026

  • «Because the people of Valais must also abide by the laws in force!»

    Hanspeter A. · 05.07.2026

  • «They belong to our forests.»

    Ute J. · 05.07.2026

  • «The planned killing of lynx in the canton of Valais is simply scandalous. Do the people of Valais really have no other problems? Apparently the lynx is a trigger for anger among people from Valais, a symbol of the alleged arrogance of the “Grüezinis” [German-speaking Swiss]: but they're happy to take the money of tourists from the rest of Switzerland. Ever since a Valais State Councillor displayed an (illegally?) shot and stuffed wolf as a trophy in his official office for the media some years ago — and that was quite a few years ago now — I have boycotted Valais: consistently no Valais wine, whether at home or in a restaurant (there is fine wine from Vaud and Geneva!), no Valais apricots (I'd rather have Italian ones!), no holidays in Valais, not even a day trip. Voilà.»

    Roger G. · 05.07.2026

  • «Every life is of equal value.»

    Dana W. · 05.07.2026

  • «Why are lynx killed at all? Beautiful, valuable, rare, and part of nature's own order. Finally there are more of them again. Isn't the lynx actually the true 'regulator' of the forest's wildlife population? Humans are the real threat — the ones who throw flora and fauna out of balance. If something is missing at one end, it also affects other parts. We haven't needed to hunt to survive for a long time now. Yes, stop the killing. Let a few more roe deer live too. Thank you for this initiative. Tanja Hersche»

    Tanja H. · 05.07.2026

  • «I am opposed to hunting.»

    Alfred W. · 04.07.2026

  • «I love animals.»

    Peter L. · 04.07.2026

  • «The lynx must be protected.»

    Nicole S. · 04.07.2026

  • «Animal welfare knows no borders!»

    Winfried H. · 04.07.2026

  • «The lynx is not the problem. The real problem is recreational hunting, which refuses to accept that nature could exist without guns. Every permit to shoot a protected predator sends the same message: hunting interests come before biodiversity. While scientists are warning of the collapse of biodiversity, some continue to demand the right to kill a rare species in the name of supposed “regulation”. The lynx does not need to be regulated, it needs to be protected. If Switzerland truly wants to defend its natural heritage, it must regulate and then abolish recreational hunting — a practice from a bygone age — and finally let predators reclaim their role within ecosystems.»

    d g. · 04.07.2026

  • «These recreational hunters, hunters, and supporters of destroying all our nature are fundamentally wrong and a human DISGRACE!!!!»

    Sandra Z. · 03.07.2026

  • «Wildlife must be protected, the lynx must be preserved. Humans are the enemy of nature, not the lynx.»

    Marlene J. · 03.07.2026

  • «For wild animals!!!»

    Melanie L. · 03.07.2026

  • «I am against the killing of lynx. There are far too few of them anyway. I agree with the accompanying text. 3.7.2026»

    Christiane A. · 03.07.2026

  • «And why, one wonders? We have no right to decimate everything. Humans and their arrogance!!»

    Monica F. · 03.07.2026

  • «Because all animals need our voices, especially in Valais, because the lynx and the wolf are of the greatest importance for diversity and biodiversity, because lynx are beautiful animals and have a right to exist. Because Homo sapiens is more of a burden on planet Earth than justified in its existence.»

    Barbara S. · 03.07.2026

  • «Because I love animals!»

    Anna B. · 03.07.2026

  • «Because the diversity of nature is vital for all of us to survive, even if it is sometimes a bit inconvenient and we have to come up with solutions to protect pets and farm animals. I think it's wonderful that the lynx have settled here! R.B.»

    Regula B. · 03.07.2026

  • «It simply cannot be that everything just gets shot. What kind of development is this?»

    Rebecca H. · 03.07.2026

  • «Because the lynx absolutely must be protected, even against recreational hunters from the political faction.»

    Beate S. · 03.07.2026

  • «because animals must be protected»

    angela w. · 03.07.2026

  • «Because as humans we should not always interfere with nature!!»

    Roos B. · 03.07.2026

  • «Because everything is getting out of hand in Valais when it comes to nature and wildlife management!!»

    Maggie g. · 03.07.2026

  • «Finally leave the animals in peace!!! It's humans who should be regulated — they disrupt the ecosystem the most, not the animals!!!»

    Nicole B. · 03.07.2026

  • «Killing lynx is absolutely unforgivable on biodiversity grounds. The lynx population is still fragile, which is especially true in Valais. It is a disgrace that precisely the canton that poaches lynx, with the approval of the authorities, now wants to start a regular lynx hunt.»

    Barbara T. · 03.07.2026

  • «Nature should regulate itself. Just because hunters can't kill enough, lynx and others have to die.»

    Andrea F. · 03.07.2026

  • «I see no reason to authorise the shooting!»

    Lisbeth J. · 03.07.2026

  • «The lynx population has not declined. The population is growing, so leave it be, just as with the wolf — that should really be clear.»

    Pierina N. · 03.07.2026

  • «Because this species must not be allowed to go extinct as well, because of human stupidity.»

    Anne-Marie S. · 03.07.2026

  • «It matters to me 🙏»

    Sybille W. · 03.07.2026

  • «The lynx is native here. It is not the competition — we are!»

    Iris G. · 03.07.2026

  • «I'm pro wolf!!!!!!!😻😻😻😻😻😻»

    Valerie A. · 03.07.2026

  • «The lynx is a wonderful wild animal. In Switzerland it is endangered. Now they want to shoot it. First the wolf, now the lynx, and what's next?»

    Beatrix W. · 03.07.2026

  • «It's unnecessary to shoot these animals. I think hunters are the absolute worst!»

    Ilona B. · 03.07.2026

  • «Humans have no right to intrude on the natural habitat of animals!»

    Claudia K. · 03.07.2026

  • «There is no reason to kill lynxes.»

    Diana V. · 03.07.2026

  • «I am signing because diversity in nature matters to me»

    Nadja T. · 03.07.2026

  • «Because nature and animals must be protected! Humans simply destroy everything.»

    Eva H. · 03.07.2026

  • «Because in every living being a heart beats, LIFE»

    Sandra P. · 03.07.2026

  • «Because lynxes are such beautiful animals and do nothing wrong»

    Esther S. · 03.07.2026

  • «Because we must stand up for those without a voice.»

    Virginie U. · 03.07.2026

  • «Lynxes deserve strict protection.»

    Thomas S. · 03.07.2026

  • «Killing is not a solution. Lynxes belong in the forest.»

    Bianca W. · 03.07.2026

  • «Because we, the public, are against the shooting of lynxes and wolves.»

    Andrea Z. · 03.07.2026

  • «The earth does not belong to humans alone»

    Ruth P. · 03.07.2026

  • «Because lynxes are very threatened and rare!»

    Susanne C. · 03.07.2026

  • «Killing is not the way»

    Anja H. · 03.07.2026

  • «Lynxes must be protected!»

    Markus N. · 03.07.2026

  • «Protect, don't kill.»

    Astrid W. · 03.07.2026

  • «To protect the lynx.»

    Rahel Z. · 03.07.2026

  • «I am signing because I want to preserve the lynxes. Recreational hunting must be banned!!!»

    Sabina T. · 03.07.2026

  • «Because every living being is sacred to me.»

    Doris L. · 03.07.2026

  • «The lynx is endangered and an enrichment for nature.»

    Sabine L. · 03.07.2026

  • «I gladly sign against the SUFFERING of animals, our fellow inhabitants of this planet. It's indescribable what terrible people there are!!!!!!!!!!!»

    Uwe F. · 03.07.2026

  • «Because the lynx is part of the food chain.»

    Gieri B. · 02.07.2026

  • «For me, protecting the top predators is the highest priority. A healthy forest is what we urgently need in order to be reasonably prepared for climate change. Recreational hunting is failing at this challenge, and populations of hoofed game keep rising. Wolves and lynxes help extremely effectively to stop this trend!»

    Ramon L. · 02.07.2026

  • «The lynx belongs in the forest ecosystem and helps ensure that young forest is sustainably spared from excessive browsing damage by hoofed animals.»

    Raphael M. · 02.07.2026

  • «The lynx, like all wild animals, is important for nature and the cycle of life»

    Sandra V. · 02.07.2026

  • «Lynxes deserve protection»

    Karin S. · 02.07.2026

  • «I think lynxes are beautiful animals, and I think they're shy... so no threat to us»

    Susanne F. · 02.07.2026

  • «Lynxes are wonderful cats and have the right to be here. It seems they are seen as competition for hunters.»

    Maria K. · 02.07.2026

  • «Humans, just like all other living beings, are only guests on this planet. We have no more rights than our fellow creatures. On the contrary, we must use every means available to ensure protection for those who cannot help themselves.»

    Silvia A. · 02.07.2026

  • «It is an important issue.»

    Andrea H. · 02.07.2026

  • «I don't understand why something like this is even being demanded... hunters apparently think they can get away with anything... and this lobby network must not be allowed to get away with killing everything for selfish reasons»

    heiko s. · 02.07.2026

  • «the few lynxes that exist should remain fully protected»

    susanne g. · 02.07.2026

  • «the lynx must remain protected»

    helene t. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because it is us HUMANS who are increasingly taking away wild animals' natural habitat. Not the other way round. We HUMANS are, quite generally, wiping out species. Not the other way round. Sometimes one almost wishes they could do it to us!»

    Hannelore V. · 02.07.2026

  • «The lynx, a noble animal, deserves to live, it has the right to. It helps make hunters unnecessary.»

    Annemarie G. · 02.07.2026

  • «If the lynx exists, as do all animals on earth, it is for a truly useful purpose that humans, instead of coexisting with it, prefer out of pure selfishness to kill. But this only adds to a worsening world. Instead of living in peace without war, no, humans kill out of greed, they no longer even try to think, and that is where the current world leads us.»

    Adriana P. · 02.07.2026

  • «Humans cannot shape everything exactly as they wish—big cats are wonderful animals and, sadly, are threatened with extinction because of humans»

    Silvester L. · 02.07.2026

  • «NATURE SHOULD REMAIN NATURE»

    René R. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because I am against these absurd kills. The wolf and the lynx belong in our country too. The number of recreational hunters urgently needs to be drastically reduced.»

    Daniel B. · 02.07.2026

  • «I love animals, and we need them in nature!»

    Celine A. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because I love animals, and lynxes are very important for our ecosystem»

    Alexandra B. · 02.07.2026

  • «The lynx belongs in Switzerland.»

    Andreas V. · 02.07.2026

  • «I am signing because we must protect nature and its animals. They have the same right to life and physical integrity»

    Jana G. · 02.07.2026

  • «I am regularly alarmed when I talk to recreational hunters: what usually emerges is dangerous half-knowledge! The biggest, most dangerous and most numerous predator wears a green coat!»

    Renate A. · 02.07.2026

  • «because animal welfare matters»

    Nicole B. · 02.07.2026

  • «Animal welfare is important for all of us»

    Iris S. · 02.07.2026

  • «It is intolerable that recreational hunters achieve high kill numbers every year and the decline in animal populations is then blamed on the lynx. Fewer kills would be a better solution!»

    Rosa Maria H. · 02.07.2026

  • «The Council of State is not really making friends with this request. Every living being has a right to existence and to food. Especially since the lynx population is declining.»

    Sabine H. · 02.07.2026

  • «Wherever lynxes exist again in the wild in Europe, they still occur at low population density. And every kill must be punished, because these animals need this protection in order to reach a genetically healthy population size again — and that's why I'm signing here.»

    Hans H. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because every single lynx deserves to be protected.»

    Anja H. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because a great deal needs to change in our world»

    Helga W. · 02.07.2026

  • «Important!»

    Joe J. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because the lynx population in Valais has already been depleted by numerous past poaching incidents, every further killing of these animals through hunting must now carry very severe penalties. That's why I'm signing here.»

    Regine B. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because it matters to me!!!»

    Gabriele Z. · 02.07.2026

  • «I am giving my signature here because lynxes are an absolutely rare species that was not placed under protection without reason. This protection must be respected, and these animals must not continue to be killed for the sake of hunting pleasure.»

    Christine B. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because I am in favour of consistent protection.»

    Hans Jakob R. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because the lynx, like the wolf, has a right to life»

    simona B. · 02.07.2026

  • «Nature is at its end. Already now. Stop the killing.»

    Norbert G. · 02.07.2026

  • «Lynxes are protected and endangered! The populations in Valais have finally recovered after these poaching incidents, and already the hunting lobby is crying out for kills. What's happening here is simply disgusting!»

    Ruth R. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because humans have no right to kill animals»

    Monika G. · 02.07.2026

  • «It makes absolutely no sense to kill protected lynxes. Even hunters and farmers tell me that. Valais should finally learn to abide by the law!»

    Eva-Maria V. · 02.07.2026

  • «When will the penny finally drop that you can't always take extermination as the easy solution, but that intelligence and creativity could also be applied to human-wildlife conflicts. Indeed, must be applied, if our planet is ever to have another chance!! WHEN!!??»

    Mandy W. · 02.07.2026

  • «An absolute DISGRACE. Who gives Mr Darbellay the right? It's only about satisfying the base instincts of certain people! Leave these beautiful animals in peace, nature will sort itself out!»

    Marliese M. · 02.07.2026

  • «Out of conviction!»

    Dagmar D. · 02.07.2026

  • «... because in Valais and elsewhere, apparently everything that doesn't suit people should simply be shot. Yet humans are the biggest monster of all.»

    Ueli und Hedy R. · 02.07.2026

  • «Le lynx a le droit de vivre et a sa place chez nous, comme tout animal sauvage, même si cela gêne les gens qui exploitent la nature ou les animaux pour leur plaisir ou pour l\'argent. C\'est une espèce protégée et elle doit le rester. Des solutions sont possibles pour cohabiter, les politiques doivent écouter les scientifiques et la majorité de la population, non les chasseurs ou les éleveurs qui ne veulent pas collaborer.»

    Camille H. · 02.07.2026

  • «Alfred Rathgeb»

    Alfred R. · 02.07.2026

  • «An example of how sick the world is. The biggest criminals are in charge. We live in an agricultural and hunting dictatorship. But almost no one notices, blinded as they are by prosperity.»

    Jörg G. · 02.07.2026

  • «The environment and nature are very close to my heart, and I wish more people would pull together to live more sustainably and ecologically!»

    Cedric S. · 02.07.2026

  • «In my view, shooting wild animals no longer has anything to do with regulation and so on. As far as animals are concerned, humans have become beasts. It's about a new kick and the exercise of power, mainly in hunting. Beatrice Bannwart»

    Beatrice B. · 02.07.2026

  • «It is unacceptable to murder animals on this earth! Their numbers are low, and the thought of killing them is unbelievably repulsive!»

    Birgit V. · 02.07.2026

  • «The right to life for all animals - stop the killing by recreational hunters!»

    Barbara S. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because every animal has a right to life.»

    Andrea D. · 02.07.2026

  • «Stop shooting wild animals. Better to shoot yourselves, you animal abusers.»

    Erika W. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because I am against the exploitation of animals.»

    Michelle M. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because I am an animal lover and love lynx!»

    Sophie K. · 02.07.2026

  • «ALL living beings have the right to LIFE!»

    Marilena B. · 02.07.2026

  • «No killings as long as the species is genetically at its limit.»

    Martina S. · 02.07.2026

  • «I support the lynx and believe that if there really are fewer hoofed animals, humans are to blame. Then fewer roe deer should be shot.»

    Markus K. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because we need much more animal welfare.»

    bettina W. · 02.07.2026

  • «Recreational hunters must be banned. Promote wildlife protection through game wardens instead of shooting everything down.»

    Karin K. · 02.07.2026

  • «This is yet another impossible idea from Valais! Lynx are wonderful, shy wild animals that pose no danger to humans whatsoever. They need our protection, not the hatred of hunters who see them only as competition. You're on the wrong side, Mr Darbellay!»

    Sonja P. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because in Switzerland the lynx, like the wolf, must be protected.»

    Isabel E. · 02.07.2026

  • «I cannot understand why such a magnificent animal should be shot because of declining roe deer and chamois populations, of which there are plenty.»

    Margarete K. · 02.07.2026

  • «I am signing because the lynx is a magnificent animal in the wild, albeit quite shy. Its population must be protected.»

    Klaus-Michael K. · 02.07.2026

  • «Animals also have a right to live. It is cowardly to shoot animals from behind their backs. Humans are not the highest good, and we should finally learn to live with animals.»

    Sandra W. · 02.07.2026

  • «Recreational hunting claims to solve problems that wouldn't exist without it in the first place.»

    Sabine F. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because I love all animals and we need to worry about the various species so that they don't go extinct.»

    Laura R. · 02.07.2026

  • «Valais, I can only shake my head 😞»

    Erika R. · 02.07.2026

  • «Nature, diversity and life are close to my heart.»

    Ronny S. · 02.07.2026

  • «As a society we need to limit wanton killings, we should promote a love and respect of all animals. So many wild animals are genetically compromised due to shocking decimation of their species.»

    Judy R. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because wild animals need our protection.»

    Alessandra D. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because in my view, foxes, lynx and wolves must not be killed—they are immensely important for the balance of nature, fauna included. Recreational hunting should be banned!»

    Marion S. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because the protection of wild animals is important to me, and they have their place in an intact ecosystem.»

    Helmut S. · 02.07.2026

  • «I am signing to protect the lynx, but also to send a general signal against the excessive, disproportionate and unjustifiable hunting of wild animals.»

    Eric B. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because recreational hunting is reckless and sick, and serves the basest of needs, and I would like to support this petition from abroad.»

    Beatrice R. · 02.07.2026

  • «Lynx, wolves and the like deserve protection!»

    Corin Isabelle S. · 02.07.2026

  • «Unfortunately, there are only very few lynx left across Europe—they absolutely must be preserved!»

    Gabriela E. · 02.07.2026

  • «I am signing because I am convinced that the lynx belongs to Switzerland's nature and must therefore not be sacrificed for the hunters' hobby.»

    Werner B. · 02.07.2026

  • «Enough is enough, wolves and lynx should be left alone, they are good for nature.»

    Zenklusen T. · 02.07.2026

  • «In Valais they shoot down everything that crosses their path, and that must stop.»

    Leonardo R. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because I want to prevent the easiest way from always being chosen.»

    Marianne G. · 02.07.2026

  • «For decades, effort was put into reintroducing the lynx, and now that they're barely here, they're supposed to be shot again. Is this for real?!?»

    Tobias S. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because species protection matters to me. And I despise recreational hunting.»

    Nathalie N. · 02.07.2026

  • «People interfere far too much everywhere and cause animal suffering and environmental destruction.»

    Daniela S. · 02.07.2026

  • «I am in favour of protecting animals.»

    Karin R. · 02.07.2026

  • «Enough already with this senseless shooting spree!»

    Bruno S. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because in Valais, things simply aren't done properly anyway! Justice Politics Wolf killings Lynx poaching Crans-Montana Ultra-Catholicism Olympics Mafia»

    Roland S. · 02.07.2026

  • «Species conservation—the lynx must be protected.»

    Ccornelia W. · 02.07.2026

  • «I am signing this petition because it matters to me to live amid healthy forests and mountains. It has been proven that predators play a crucial role in the dynamics of these habitats.»

    olivier b. · 02.07.2026

  • «For the poor lynx.»

    Verena W. · 02.07.2026

  • «For the lynx.»

    Susanna W. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because this hunting crime must not be allowed to succeed. It is simply shameful. 😔»

    Sabine G. · 02.07.2026

  • «Every living being has a right to life!»

    Kathrin H. · 02.07.2026

  • «Does the lynx have no right to exist?»

    René B. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because all animals are close to my heart.»

    Isolde A. · 02.07.2026

  • «Lynx belong in our nature!»

    Bernhard H. · 02.07.2026

  • «Stop shooting everything! Respect nature! Humans are not above everything else!»

    Rachel R. · 02.07.2026

  • «As has been shown for many years, killing foxes does not lead to a smaller fox population.»

    Christa B. · 02.07.2026

  • «The lynx fulfils an important ecological function.»

    Jos V. · 02.07.2026

  • «The lynx is not a problem in Valais!»

    Regula A. · 02.07.2026

  • «Because I want to protect animals.»

    Roland S. · 02.07.2026

  • «Preserve nature and ecology.»

    Silke B. · 02.07.2026

  • «Biodiversity matters and every animal is close to my heart.»

    Anna B. · 01.07.2026

  • «Please let them live. We have no right to kill animals.»

    Vanessa P. · 01.07.2026

  • «I love animals!»

    Andrea H. · 01.07.2026

  • «because I think habitat for lynx is important»

    Gabriele H. · 01.07.2026

  • «It is beyond me how a few selfish hunters want to blame lynx for the decline in roe deer, when in truth these very hunters themselves shoot and reduce the deer population. Hands off these animals, whose species and genetics have already suffered enough because of hunters!»

    Eveline W. · 01.07.2026

  • «Because it is important NOT to diminish the lynx population!!! This senseless killing must be stopped!!!»

    Daniela V. · 01.07.2026

  • «The lynx is protected and must remain protected. What does this canton actually think it's doing. First the wolf, now the lynx, what's next?»

    Daniela H. · 01.07.2026

  • «The way predators are handled in Valais must finally change and must no longer be abused for self-interests such as hunting.»

    Daniel P. · 01.07.2026

  • «I believe that the current hunting of predators such as lynx and wolf lacks any scientific basis and is completely unnecessary.»

    Melanie R. · 01.07.2026

  • «It simply cannot be that a cantonal councillor and recreational hunter constantly agitates against protected wild animals and still gets his way. It's simply disgusting. Finally leave the animals in peace!»

    Esther S. · 01.07.2026

  • «I am signing because we must bear responsibility for all animals of this world. Co-existence!!! And no tampering with nature!»

    Tanja R. · 01.07.2026

  • «I am signing this petition because the lynx should not be shot. We should be glad they are back»

    Regine W. · 01.07.2026

  • «If hunters stopped shooting roe deer, the lynx could keep on living... but of course, hunters have power, far too much power 😡»

    Anita W. · 01.07.2026

  • «Estou assinando porque Odeio caçadores! Eles não tem que caçar nenhum animal, Deixe eles em paz! 😡😡😡 Caçadores, vão caçar algo de Útil para fazer! Animais são Vidas, sentem tudo o que nós sentimos! Vocês não tem sentimentos, empatia, compaixão?»

    Terezinha B. · 01.07.2026

  • «Stop murdering the animals, they have just as much right to live as we do..»

    Martina F. · 01.07.2026

  • «Because I want an intact wildlife population»

    Marcus D. · 01.07.2026

  • «Humans must finally stay out of the habitat of wild animals. Nature regulates itself!!! The desire to kill should be punished»

    Ulrike S. · 01.07.2026

  • «Because animals and nature must be protected.»

    Renate A. · 01.07.2026

  • «Hunters out of the forest. Hunters destroy and kill!»

    Susanne K. · 01.07.2026

  • «It's only right! Live and let live!»

    Thomas Adalbert K. · 01.07.2026

  • «Lynx have a right to life»

    Dagmar J. · 01.07.2026

  • «Predators belong to our nature. We must give them space and respect.»

    Elisabeth C. · 01.07.2026

  • «Because the lynx belongs to our nature. Stop shooting everything that appears to be in competition with you. We have enough meat, we don't need game too, just to eat.»

    Daniela H. · 01.07.2026

  • «The wolf must not be shot in Switzerland, nor the lynx. The wolf helps keep nature in balance. Humans don't need to add more killing on top of that!»

    Georg N. · 01.07.2026

  • «I don't want any lynx kills»

    Eveline J. · 01.07.2026

  • «...because the lynx population in Valais is threatened by illegal kills and an insufficiently diverse gene pool.»

    Kirsten P. · 01.07.2026

  • «Because it is important to rein in trigger-happy cantons like Valais, which have no understanding of wild animals and want hunters to do whatever they want, believing they don't have to abide by anything!»

    Karin S. · 01.07.2026

  • «It's an absolute disgrace»

    Friederike W. · 01.07.2026

  • «.. Wild animals have always belonged to our country. It is entirely possible to live alongside them.»

    Hans M. · 01.07.2026

  • «Because I am in favour of preserving these wonderful animals! And for the protection of the lynx.»

    David K. · 01.07.2026

  • «I am signing because lynx, wolves and all endangered wild animals must remain protected or be put under protection!»

    brigit g. · 01.07.2026

  • «Because this is not the right path for our nature!»

    Eliane C. · 01.07.2026

  • «As a top predator, the lynx regulates roe deer and chamois populations. This reduces the selection pressure on vegetation. Through the lynx's hunting behaviour, the spatial behaviour of herbivorous game changes. Less browsing damage on young trees secures the long-term stability of the Valais protective and ban forests against avalanches and erosion. There are no facts that justify this hunt demanded by a recreational hunter.»

    Herbert Z. · 01.07.2026

  • «The lynx population is genetically impoverished, not stable, and must be protected. The way predators are handled in the Swiss mountain cantons is an absolute disgrace and must be urgently improved!»

    Andreas P. · 01.07.2026

  • «Protect our precious wildlife !!! If you want to hunt then build a time machine and go back to the stone age ...»

    Christopher E. · 01.07.2026

  • «Because I am convinced that Valais is the canton that wants to shoot every wild animal that comes within range of its rifle.»

    Anna-Maria H. · 01.07.2026

News

  • 2 months ago 500 signatures reached
  • 2 months ago 250 signatures reached
  • 2 months ago 100 signatures reached
  • 2 months ago 50 signatures reached
  • 2 months ago 25 signatures reached
  • 2 months ago 10 signatures reached