In a landmark move for animal rights, Switzerland is poised to decide on the prohibition of foie gras and fur imports. The Swiss Animal Alliance, spearheading this initiative, has successfully gathered the necessary signatures, paving the way for a public vote on these pivotal issues.
Campaigners, stationed outside Bern’s Federal Palace, marked their cause with stacked boxes symbolizing certified signatures. The petition against foie gras amassed 106,448 signatures, while the call to ban fur imports resonated even more strongly, securing 116,140 signatures—both surpassing the critical 100,000 threshold required for a national vote.
Despite Switzerland banning the force-feeding of ducks and geese, a fundamental aspect of foie gras production, for over four decades, the importation of products derived from this method remains legal. The initiative titled «Yes to the Ban on Importing Foie Gras» seeks a constitutional amendment to halt the import of such products.
Running parallel is the proposal titled «Yes to the Ban on Importing Fur Products from Mistreated Animals,» addressing concerns about fur imports that violate Swiss animal protection laws.
The Swiss Animal Alliance points out the paradox of Switzerland positioning itself as a major foie gras importer, with 200 tonnes imported annually. The campaign argues against penalizing Swiss foie gras producers while allowing the importation of the same product.
On the fur front, the Alliance condemns breeding and killing methods that breach Swiss animal protection laws. Approximately 350 tonnes of fur are imported annually, leading to the slaughter of around 1.5 million animals. The Alliance highlights China as a significant source, citing inhumane conditions where animals are detained and killed, including instances of live skinning—a practice conflicting with Switzerland’s commitment to animal welfare.
This impending public vote signifies a pivotal moment for Switzerland’s commitment to ethical treatment of animals, reflecting a global shift toward responsible consumer choices.
