Model text: Import ban for hunting trophies

1. Motion

The cantonal government is tasked with actively advocating at federal level for a national import ban on hunting trophies. In particular, it is tasked with:

• preparing a cantonal initiative to the Federal Assembly that calls for a statutory ban on the import of hunting trophies of protected and endangered animal species into Switzerland
• advocating for a common position in the Conference of Cantonal Environmental Directors (KVU) in favor of a trophy import ban
• examining at cantonal level what measures can be taken to restrict the trade in hunting trophies
• reporting to the cantonal parliament within one year

2. Brief rationale

Trophy hunting is one of the most controversial forms of hobby hunting. Switzerland, as a wealthy country, is a relevant import market. Swiss citizens regularly participate in trophy hobby hunting trips and import trophies. A clear majority of the population supports an import ban. In the EU, this has been discussed for years. Switzerland, as a CITES member, should not fall behind these developments.

• Dossier Trophy hunting
• Dossier Hobby hunting tourism