Trade in baby elephants

30.3.2015

Question for written answer E-004958-15
to the Commission
Rule 130
Marlene Mizzi (S&D)

The Zimbabwe Conservation Task Force has reported the capture of dozens of baby elephants for sale to global buyers to raise funds for Hwange National Park.

The trade in baby elephants is very cruel both to the calves torn from their families and to the remaining herd. The young elephants, which are completely dependent on their mothers for their physical and psychological wellbeing, are deeply traumatised by the separation and the stress of being transported over long distances. In many cases they do not even survive the experience.

The baby elephants were recently captured in Zimbabwe for export to France to supply zoos and circuses.

Can the Commission clarify what measures have been taken to pressure the Government of Zimbabwe to ensure that the captured elephants remain in the country and are returned to their herds under the supervision of conservation organisations?