An Entertainment Abuses Article from All-Creatures.org



The Ethical Quandary of Panda Diplomacy

From Ed Boks, Animal Politics
June 2024

This provides an opportune time to examine “panda diplomacy” through the lens of compassionate conservation and the broader history of zoo conservation efforts. This perspective allows us to critically assess both the effectiveness of zoo-based conservation programs and the ethical implications of using animals as diplomatic tools. 

Panda
Image from : Canva/SanderMeertins

A recent New York Times article "Welcome Back Pandas" reported on an agreement to bring a new pair of pandas, Bao Li and Qing Bao, to the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington, D.C. before the end of 2024. This follows the return of three giant pandas—Tian Tian, Mei Xiang, and their cub Xiao Qi Ji—to China in November 2023, after residing at the National Zoo for twenty-three years.

The departure of the three pandas was thought to have marked the end of a significant chapter in U.S.-China relations, often referred to as "panda diplomacy"—the practice where China loans pandas to foreign zoos as a symbol of goodwill. Their departure was part of a broader trend of China recalling its pandas from Western zoos amid strained diplomatic relations. However, it is hoped this new agreement will signal a renewed era of panda diplomacy and a potential thaw in relations.

As we reflect on these developments, it provides an opportune time to examine “panda diplomacy” through the lens of compassionate conservation and the broader history of zoo conservation efforts. This perspective allows us to critically assess both the effectiveness of zoo-based conservation programs and the ethical implications of using animals as diplomatic tools

....

Please read the ENTIRE ARTICLE HERE, including:

  • The History and Evolution of Zoo Conservation
  • The Ethical Dilemma of Panda Diplomacy
  • Compassionate Conservation: A New Ethical Framework
  • A Plea for Ethical Conservation Practices

 


Posted on All-Creatures.org: June 5, 2024
Return to Entertainment Abuses Articles
Read more at Legislation/Policy Articles