Petition Introduction: 

Thanks to international conservation efforts, the giant panda has been reclassified from an endangered species to a vulnerable species. However, many pandas still suffer from unethical and excessive artificial breeding attempts and substandard living conditions. Pandas returned to China, including Fu Bao from Korea, reportedly experience high stress and health deterioration due to these practices. Under China’s ownership and control, which extends to all panda conservation and breeding efforts worldwide, zoos and research centers in other countries lack the autonomy to ensure pandas' welfare and health.

The distress and health issues of pandas in such environments are of great concern to the international community. We urge cooperation among countries at the upcoming 2025 CITES Conference of the Parties to amend panda ownership regulations. By easing China’s exclusive ownership and granting more authority to foreign zoos and research institutions, we can ensure pandas receive the best possible care and ethical treatment.

Petition Details:

• Request to Amend Ownership with a Focus on Panda Welfare: We call upon the CITES Conference to review the giant panda ownership agreement to allow countries more authority to provide better living conditions and welfare standards. This amendment aims to empower zoos and research centers worldwide to independently manage the health and breeding of pandas, prioritizing their well-being.
• End Unethical Artificial Breeding Practices: CITES should reinforce regulations that prohibit unethical and excessive artificial breeding of pandas and ensure they are allowed to breed naturally in suitable environments. A breeding program that respects pandas' welfare and natural behaviors should be supported in every country.
• Promote Global Cooperation to Enhance Panda Welfare and Management: We urge CITES Parties to work together to establish and uphold standard guidelines for panda welfare and health management. Zoos and research centers worldwide should be supported in their efforts to actively protect the mental and physical well-being of pandas through international cooperation.

Additional Information:

To prevent future issues like those faced by Fu Bao after returning to China, we must reassess the exclusive ownership of pandas and expand the autonomy of countries housing them. This will ensure pandas receive the care they deserve and that conservation efforts by each country are respected. Please join us in urging the 2025 CITES Conference to address this critical issue.

Sign Now:

By signing, you can help bring attention to this vital cause, promoting international cooperation to protect the welfare and health of giant pandas. Your support is an essential step in safeguarding their future.