Past News
On our News Page you can find the latest updates on animals in the countries of Asia, learn more about Animal Awareness Date, and get acknowledged with the participation of the Institute of Animal Law of Asia (IALA) in various projects and events.
World Numbat Day
It's World Numbat Day!
This day was created to celebrate the unique mammal of Western Australia and to encourage action to conserve this species.
The numbat is a small marsupial that was once found across most of southern Australia but now is restricted to a few isolated pockets in southwest Western Australia and two small re-introduced populations in New South Wales and South Australia.
There are approximately less than 1000 species left in the wild due to the species facing the threat of extinction. Numbats are mainly threatened by habitat loss and introduced predators, such as foxes and feral cats.
An intensive research and conservation program since 1980 faced success in increasing the numbat population significantly, and reintroductions to fox-free areas have begun. Despite the efforts, the numbats remain at risk of extinction and are classified as Endangered under the IUCN Red List.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the numbats and the threats they face;
Raise awareness about climate change and its effect on the animals;
Go vegan for the animals and the planet;
Consider volunteering with the conservation groups that work on the restoration of the numbat's population;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #WorldNumbatDay.
Read our next series of news articles on the following topics:
Javan leopard habitat is under threat;
Hong Kong's wild boars are on the loose;
First dog meat trader is jailed in Indonesia;
The dead Sumatran tiger is found in the animal trap;
The return of bull racing to Bali; and
Pingers on fishing nets as a way to save Irrawaddy dolphins.
In our October Newsletter, you will find 6 research articles, two volumes of our news digest Asia Animal Law Bulletin, 4 species of animals in Animal Calendar, and international and national animal holidays. We also welcomed a new member in the Alliance for Animal Law of Asia.
World Vegan Day
It's World Vegan Day!
This day was created in 1994 by Louise Wallis and is celebrated annually on November 1st to promote the importance of veganism and to raise awareness about the benefits of a vegan lifestyle.
Veganism is a philosophy and way of living which seeks to exclude - as far as is possible and practicable - all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing, or any other purpose; and by extension, promotes the development and use of animal-free alternatives for the benefit of animals, humans, and the environment. There is an urgent need to raise public awareness about how veganism could help save millions of lives.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the benefits of veganism;
Learn how you may help reduce the waste and take steps to save the Earth;
Go vegan for the animals and the planet;
Plant a tree;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #WorldVeganDay.
Join the 2nd Annual Aquatic Life Conference to be held virtually on November 15-18!
This Conference is organized by Aquatic Life Institute, one of the members of the Alliance for Animal Law of Asia. The Conference includes exciting panels and speakers, including a keynote speech by legendary oceanographer, Dr. Sylvia Earle!
The major themes covered this year will be:
Fish welfare pillars;
Campaign & policy;
Neglected research areas and species; and
Sustainability, conservation, and food systems intersectionality.
The Conference is free and open to the public.
It's World Kangaroo Day!
This day was created to raise awareness about the kangaroos and promote effective legal protection for them.
The major threats for kangaroos include loss of habitat, bushfires, drought, predators, legal and illegal hunting, car accidents, fences, and animal cruelty - all are driving local populations of kangaroos to extinction.
The recent catastrophic bushfires in Australia wiped out more than 3 billion wildlife, with 25% of bushland habitat destroyed in the state of NSW. Millions of dollars were raised to care for this wildlife yet despite this utter devastation the government allowed the commercial shooting of kangaroos to continue. The number of kangaroos remaining in Australia is unknown.
World Kangaroo Day shines a light on the problems facing Australia’s kangaroo. There is an urgent need to spread the word and educate people because the commercial kangaroo industry may lead to a fatal outcome for these animals.
How to celebrate?
Learn more facts about the kangaroos and threats that they face;
Raise awareness about the hunting and killing of these animals;
Go vegan for the animals and the planet
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #WorldKangarooDay.
Pit Bull Awareness Day
It's Pit Bull Awareness Day in the U.S.!
This day was created in 2007 to raise awareness about the truth about pit bulls and promote legal protection for them.
Pit bulls are commonly known to be used in dogfighting, a cruel practice involving dogs in the blood sport by pitting them against one another in a ring. After the fight, dogs usually have serious injuries, broken bones, bleedings, etc. Upon the end of the match, dogs are not euthanized with humane methods, rather they are tortured or beaten.
There have been lots of myths about pit bulls over the decades, as being ferocious, malicious, and dangerous dogs. An image far from the truth and based on the actions of maligned humans, not the animals themselves. All animals are individuals with unique personalities, being capable of feeling joy and pain. There are no "bad" dogs - there are only dogs who have been abused or neglected upon which they become aggressive and fearful.
How to celebrate?
Learn more facts about the pit bulls, not myths;
Raise awareness about the abusive practices of dogfighting;
Consider volunteering with and donating to the shelters;
Adopt a pit bull instead of buying them from pet stores and breeders;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #PitBullAwarenessDayUS.
We are happy to announce our next animal law webinar on Zoom with Lori Marino, the Founder and President of the Whale Sanctuary Project and the Executive Director of the Kimmela Center for Animal Advocacy, on November 4th, 2021!
In this presentation, Lori Marino will discuss the concept of nonhuman personhood from a philosophical and legal perspective focusing on the extensive scientific evidence that shows many animals meet the definition of personhood used in the law to protect human beings. She will then discuss the ways human cognitive biases and psychological defense mechanisms prevent nonhuman personhood from being accepted both legally and philosophically and why this concept is important for recognizing the independent rights of other animals beyond welfare.
Lori Marino is a neuroscientist formerly on the faculty of Emory University known for her work on the evolution of the brain and intelligence in dolphins and whales, as well as primates, elephants, and farmed animals. She is also involved in various projects at the intersection of science and animal law and has worked closely with the Nonhuman Rights Project.
Open and Free to the public. Registration is required, find the link here.
Find more information on our Facebook event page.
Reptile Awareness Day
It's Reptile Awareness Day in the U.S.!
This day was created to promote education, conservation, and appreciation for reptiles. This day is also another opportunity to learn about the reptiles' natural habitats and the ecological threats that they are facing.
Currently, there are over 10 000 species and an additional 2700 subspecies of reptiles in the world. Habitat loss and degradation is one of the greatest threats to the reptile populations and occurs from a variety of sources, including urban/suburban development, aquatic habitat alteration from water withdrawals and stream diversions, water pollution, and off-road vehicle use in terrestrial habitats. Other threats include introduced invasive species, environmental pollution, disease, and unsustainable use.
Reptiles play a fundamental role in the entire ecosystem. As one part of the greater food chain, they prevent overpopulation and provide food for hungry predators, especially when they are young. Some of the most venomous snakes in the world such as the Indian cobra prevent the spread of disease-carrying rodents, even in urban centers, so their usefulness often outweighs their danger. Crocodiles and alligators prevent the overpopulation of fish species in coastal regions and wetlands, which is pivotal in keeping these aquatic ecosystems healthy and balanced.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the reptiles and threats that they face;
Learn more about how we can reduce our impact on the environment and the animals' habitat;
Go vegan for the animals and the planet;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #ReptileAwarenessDayUS.
International Sloth Day
It's International Sloth Day!
This day was created by the foundation AIUNAU, a program dedicated to the conservation and rehabilitation of wildlife in Columbia. Per AIUNAU: “There is a lot that sloths can teach us — respect, tenderness, joy.”
Sloths are a group of arboreal Neotropical xenarthran mammals, constituting the suborder Folivora, and there are two types, which are the two-toed and three-toed sloths.
There are six subspecies of sloths that can be found in Central America and South America, all of which are threatened by deforestation and degradation of their habitat (tropical forests), and by illegal trafficking. Unfortunately, these factors often result in fatal outcomes for these animals. Organizations responsible for the protection of the species in Central America and Colombia estimate that between 80% - 90% of trafficked sloths die in the process.
Of all the species, the pygmy sloth is the only one that is classified as endangered. Over the last decade, the population of the pygmy sloth has decreased by 80%. There are less than 100 pygmy sloths left in the world, and this makes them one of the most endangered mammals in the world. Due to shrinking habitats, pygmy sloths are expected to become extinct by 2022.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the sloths and threats that they face;
Educate the public about the urgent need to protect wildlife animals and plants;
Learn more about how we can reduce our impact on the environment and the animals' habitat;
Go vegan for the animals and the planet;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #InternationalSlothDay.
Read our next series of news articles on the following topics:
Global warming killing 14% of corals in a decade;
Dying beached whale shark eaten by locals in West Java;
Illegal pet trade in gibbons in Bali;
Chinese pledge of USD 233 million to the Global Biodiversity Fund;
Seizures of poached giant clams in the Philippines; and
The continuance of demand for endangered slow lorises.
It's World Migratory Bird Day!
This day was created to increase the level of awareness about the threats – both general and specific – that birds are facing. In 2021, this day is observed twice, on May 8th and October 9th. The theme of this year is "Sing, Fly, Soar - Like a Bird!" By comparing their experiences and concerns, sharing their stories and activities, people around the world will make their voices and actions reach out even further, throughout the flyways, underlying the fact that bird conservation is, indeed, a global issue.
Migratory birds all across the globe are threatened by habitat loss and illegal hunting as well as from poisoning, pollution and collision with man-made objects, such as glass-covered buildings and powerlines. Climate change is additional pressure on migratory birds by adversely affecting habitats they need for breeding, resting, and refueling along the way. The changing climate is also impacting the annual cycles of birds, affecting the timing of migration and reproduction and causing mismatches in food availability.
Migratory birds are also threatened by light pollution, which disorients birds who are flying at night, leading them to collide with buildings. Approximately 2000 of the world’s 11 000 species of birds do migrate, some covering enormous distances, like the Arctic Tern or the Bar-tailed Godwit.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the migratory birds and threats that they face;
Educate the public about the urgent need to protect birds;
Go vegan for the animals and the planet;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #WorldMigratoryBirdDay.
It's World Animal Day!
This day was created to raise the status of animals in the legal system and raising awareness about the need to protect them. This day unites the animal protection movement, mobilizing it into a global force to make the world a better place for all animals.
Trillions of animals are suffering every hour from human practices and climate crisis consequences caused by human activities. In many countries around the world, even though the Animal Welfare Act is enacted, it is not enforced, while in other parts of the Earth, animal law does not exist. The animal protection movement is gradually expanding, however, there is an urgent need to educate as many individuals as possible about the harm we inflict on animals, the consequences of not stopping to exploit animals, and the necessity to recognize them as legal persons. Through increased awareness and education we can create a world where animals are always recognized as sentient beings.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the pain and suffering of animals across the globe and ways how we can protect them;
Urge the government to enact effective legislation to protect animals and enforce the laws;
Educate the public about the urgent need to protect animals;
Go vegan for the animals and the planet;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #WorldAnimalDay.
In our September Newsletter, you will find 6 research articles, two volumes of our news digest Asia Animal Law Bulletin, 5 species of animals, and international and national animal holidays. Last month, we also conducted the animal law webinar as part of the project "Enhancing Legal Regulations for Aquatic Animals in Kazakhstan."
World Farm Animal Day
It's World Farm Animal Day!
This day was created in 1983 by the international campaign of the Farm Animal Rights Movement to raise awareness about the cruel practices done to farmed animals in factory farms, local farms, and generally for consumption purposes.
In every country across the globe, billions of farmed animals are being killed for meat, eggs, and dairy in factory farms and slaughterhouses every day. Even animals raised on small family farms are enduring many of these abuses. Irrespective of the place they were raised, every farm animal raised for food is facing a gruesome slaughter.
Agricultural activity involving animals is also the main driver of climate change that affects other animals and, generally, the planet entirely. Human activities increase the concentrations of some of the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, in particular, CO2, methane, nitrous oxide, fluorinated gases, etc. Agriculture is directly responsible for 14% of total greenhouse gas emissions. There is an urgent need to put this business to an end.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the pain and suffering of farmed animals for satisfying human needs;
Urge the public to enact effective legislation to protect farmed animals and not exclude them from legal protection;
Educate the public about the detrimental effects of factory farms;
Go vegan not to contribute to this brutal practice;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #WorldFarmAnimalDay.
Read our next series of news articles on the following topics:
Assam's destruction of rhino horns marking World Rhino Day;
Critical threats to the Indonesian bowmouth guitarfish due to overfishing;
New hope for Siamese crocodiles in Cambodia;
South Korean president suggesting a ban on dog meat;
A critical danger to land mammals, amphibians, and birds;
Live trafficking trend of the Malaysian hornbill in Southeast Asia.
World Rabies Day
It's World Rabies Day!
This day was created to raise awareness about the issue of rabies around the world and the necessity to vaccinate animals. The pandemic has raised many doubts and misconceptions about diseases, their spread, and about vaccination, in general. As for rabies, the theme of this year is focused on sharing facts about rabies and not spreading fear about the disease by relying on misinformation and myths.
In the United States, for instance, more than 90% of reported cases of rabies in animals occur in wildlife. The wild animals that most commonly carry rabies in the United States are raccoons, skunks, bats, and foxes. Cats and dogs, cattle, and horses)can also get rabies. Nearly all the pets and livestock that get rabies had not received a vaccination or were not up to date on rabies vaccination.
While rabies is a 100% preventable disease, more than 59 000 people die from the disease around the world each year. This day is another opportunity to reflect on our efforts to control this deadly disease and remind ourselves that the fight is not yet over.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about rabies and the need to vaccinate animals;
Urge the public to educate themselves about this issue;
Vaccinate your companion animals;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #WorldRabiesDay.
Sea Otter Awareness Week
It's Sea Otter Awareness Week in the U.S.!
This day is celebrated on the last week of September and was created to promote and encourage the protection of sea otters.
Sea otters are one of the species of marine mammals that are currently threatened by a lot of factors, including climate change, water pollution, fishing and overfishing activities, etc. Many sea otters are becoming victims of fishing nets that eventually kill the aquatic species of animals. Sea otters are important for the entire marine ecosystem, and there is an urgent need to protect them and educate about the detrimental effect of fishing.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the sea otters, threats that they face, and means through which we can protect them;
Urge the public to educate themselves about the necessity to stop fishing;
Urge the government to enact effective legislation on the protection of aquatic animals;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #SeaOtterAwarenessWeekUS.
Fish Amnesty Day
It's Fish Amnesty Day in the U.S.!
This day was created by PETA in 1997 to recognize fish as living animals with rights and the necessity to protect them as other vertebrates.
Fish also have advanced nervous systems that process and respond to pain. With no laws protecting them from cruelty, they can be impaled on hooks, yanked out of the water, and suffocated. Their mouths are ripped open as hooks are pried out, they’re hit in the head with blunt objects, and they’re sliced open and disemboweled while still alive. Moreover, fish have been proven by science to feel fear, pain, and suffering. However, fish, among other aquatic animals, receive less consideration than marine mammals, for instance.
Fish are important for the entire ecosystem as being part of the food chain, they help maintain healthy oceans at the same level as other species of aquatic animals. Instead, billions of them are killed every year for food consumption and caught for the development of aquaculture. Not only fish suffer from fishing activities but other animals too who become victims of the nets, hooks, etc. Because of overfishing, we could have fishless oceans by 2050.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the fish, threats that they face, and means through which we can protect them;
Urge the public to educate themselves about the importance of fish in our waters;
Urge the government to enact effective legislation on fish protection;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #FishAmnestyDayUS.
International Rabbit Day
It's International Rabbit Day!
This day was created to promote the protection and care of rabbits, both domestic and wild. On this day, we should consider thinking about how rabbits are threatened by hunting, food consumption, medical experimentation, product testing, fur-farming.
According to the mission of the House Rabbit Society, "ALL rabbits are valuable as individuals, regardless of breed purity, temperament, state of health, or relationship to humans. The welfare of all rabbits is our primary consideration. In line with our mission, we are against the exploitation of rabbits... Domestic rabbits are companion animals and should be afforded at least the same individual rights, level of care, and opportunity for longevity as commonly afforded to dogs and cats who live as human companions."
So many rabbits are victims of animal experimentation, testing, hunting for food consumption, fur trade, etc. Wild rabbits play an important role in the planet’s ecosystem - they help to keep invasive plants under control, and so rabbits encourage other plants, insects, and birds to thrive.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the rabbits, threats that they face, and means through which we can protect them;
Shift to cruelty-free cosmetics, household products, etc;
Refrain from using fur clothes;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #InternationalRabbitDay.
On September 8, 2021, the Institute of Animal Law of Asia (IALA) has turned 1 year from the day of its foundation!
IALA is an educational research center, dedicated to offering news, articles, and comprehensive and up-to-date information on the issues of animal law and policy all over Asia and the world. Our mission is to show the importance of protecting animals by raising awareness through legal sources, articles, news, and cases.
For the past year, our team has worked on providing as many as possible educational materials, articles, and events on animal protection issues in the countries of Asia and the world. We would like to say big thanks to everybody who has been following and supporting our work, sponsoring our activities, and volunteering at our organization! We are determined to develop the animal law field in more countries and hoping to see the animal protection community grow!
We invite you to join us in commemorating and celebrating this important date with us by watching the YouTube video prepared by the IALA team!
It's World Rhino Day!
This day was created in 2010 by the WWF South Africa to raise awareness about the threats of all five rhino species distributed across the globe and to remind the public of ways how to conserve and protect these animals.
Rhinos are magnificent, massive, and powerful creatures, classified as one of the Big Five game animals. There are now five different types of rhinos, each with specific characteristics that distinguish them. These are the Javan Rhino, the Sumatran Rhino, the Greater One-Horned Rhino, the Black Rhino, and the White Rhino distributed across Africa and Asia. Rhinos are referred to as ‘Umbrella species’ or keystone species.
Most rhino species are dangerously close to extinction. The major threats to them include poaching, illegal horn trade, loss of habitat due to climate change, and low population density. These animals have roamed the earth for millions of years, playing an important role in the ecosystem. They feed on green leafy matter, including grass, consuming heavy amounts of vegetation, so they help shape the landscape. It is important to urge the public and the government to protect these animals that play a significant role in our lives.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the rhinos, threats that they face, and means through which we can save them;
Urge the government to enact effective legislation on the protection of these animals;
Urge the public to educate themselves about the importance of rhinos on our Earth;
Consider volunteering with and donating to organizations that work on the conservation of rhinoceros and saving their populations;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #WorldRhinoDay.
Puppy Mill Awareness Day in the U.S.
It's Puppy Mill Awareness Day in the U.S.!
This day was created to spread the word about the barbaric practice of puppy mills and to improve the lives of all dogs across the globe.
The term “puppy mill” refers to a large-scale commercial dog-breeding facility, where the major goal set is receiving profits over the welfare of the dogs. The aim of puppy mills is to produce the largest number of puppies as quickly as possible, without consideration of genetic quality or the care of the animals. A puppy mill is a cruel practice where dogs are kept in outdoor kennels or caged in darkness, without adequate food, water, or veterinary care, in crowded and unsanitary conditions.
Many dogs that are victims of puppy mills oftentimes suffer from genetic/hereditary conditions and deadly diseases. Also, many puppy mill dogs experience behavioral and psychological problems. There is a need to raise public awareness about the detrimental effect of puppy mills and encourage everybody to adopt instead of buying a companion animal from breeders. By adopting, one could give the entire life to an animal, help the shelter, and help thousands of homeless, abused, and abandoned animals get a chance to be adopted.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the puppy mills practice and why you should adopt, not shop;
Educate your surroundings about this abusive practice;
Consider volunteering with and donating to shelters that save a lot of homeless, abandoned, and abused animals;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #PuppyMillAwarenessDayUS.
Read our next series of news articles on the following topics:
A new Indonesia's program on investigating illegal fishing;
A new study in Hong Kong on finding the common victims of animal cruelty;
IUCN's reclassification of the Komodo Dragon;
Japan’s controversial annual dolphin hunt;
The Islamabad High Court stopping the government from importing elephants; and
The rescue of 65 Jindo dogs and puppies from the South Korean dog meat industry.
We are happy to share another pre-recorded animal law webinar with Dr. Maria Baideldinova, the Assistant Professor of KIMEP University! The event was organized under the Project “Enhancing Legal Regulations for Aquatic Animals in Kazakhstan.”
In this presentation, Dr. Maria Baideldinova described the currently existing legal provisions, which regulate the creation and functioning of dolphinariums in Kazakhstan, identified the gaps, and discussed the perspectives of legislative developments in this sphere.
Anniversary of the Institute of Animal Law of Asia
Institute of Animal Law of Asia (IALA) has turned 1 year from the day of its foundation! Our team strives to keep on raising awareness, provide more educational materials on animal protection in Asia and the world in the following years, and continue working on creating a better world for animals across the globe!
We want to express our deep gratitude to everybody who is following our work, supporting us in our activities, and encourages us to speak for the voiceless! Please join us in celebrating this milestone!
In our August Newsletter, you will find 6 research articles, two volumes of our news digest Asia Animal Law Bulletin, 2 species of animals, international animal holidays, and two animal law webinars. Last month, we also conducted an interview with Animal Law Reform South Africa, one of the members of the Alliance for Animal Law of Asia, to learn more about the organization's mission, goals, and work.
National Wildlife Day in the U.S.
It's National Wildlife Day in the U.S.!
This day was created to improve awareness of the species around the world. This day also focuses on endangered species, preservation, and conservation efforts around the world.
Our nature, including wildlife animals, relies on a stable habitat, so understanding conservation and preservation plays an important role in our lives. Recently especially wildlife animals have suffered plenty of events, such as ice storms, wildfires, ice melting. Animals are now experiencing loss of habitat because of human activities. Developing strategies is crucial to help maintain existing habitats and repair/replace those that have been destroyed.
Since the hit of the recent pandemic, wildlife animals have drawn a lot of attention. There is an urgent need for humans to raise awareness about illegal trade, poaching, and the consequences of climate change.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the wildlife animals, threats that they face, and ways how we can protect them;
Report any illegal activity that concerns wildlife;
Consider volunteering with and donating to organizations that work on the conservation of wildlife species;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #NationalWildlifeDayUS.
Read our next series of news articles on the following topics:
Biologists and divers working on the conservation of turtles in Sri Lanka;
The arrest of a student for killing snails in Hong Kong;
South Korea granting legal status to animals;
Taking the stranded dugong in Indonesia for traditional medicine;
Sri Lanka enacting the ban of 'drunk driving' of elephants; and
Revealing extreme animal cruelty with millions of views on social media platforms.
International Whale Shark Day
It's International Whale Shark Day!
This day was created to raise awareness about these amazing sea-dwelling creatures and encourage marine conservation efforts aimed at this shark species.
Whale sharks differ from other shark species because of their wide flat heads, large mouths, and spotted bodies. They are the biggest shark species and among the biggest fish in the ocean. Whale sharks have no natural predators, and they are considered top-level predators, so in a case when top-level predators can become extinct, the population numbers of the creatures that they prey on may swell dramatically.
Whale sharks need legal protection as they are becoming endangered. They are also one of the most vulnerable marine animals, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature. There is an urgent need to take action towards protecting these and other aquatic animals that play a significant role in the entire ecosystem by taking simple steps, such as going vegan and reducing plastic waste.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the whale sharks, what threats they face, and how we can protect them;
Reduce plastic waste use;
Consider going plant-based to save these animals;
Consider making a donation to the organizations that work on the conservation of whale sharks;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #InternationalWhaleSharkDay.
We are happy to share another pre-recorded animal law webinar with Cat Besch, the founder and director of Vietnam Animal Aid & Rescue - U.S! The event was organized under the Project “Enhancing Legal Regulations for Aquatic Animals in Kazakhstan.”
Protecting animals of all species requires understanding the unique political, economic, and cultural context of the target community which varies from country to country, and conservation of marine ecosystems is no different. While speciesism is the dominant worldview and prevalent even in most animal protection movements, the success of sea life protections requires a shift in that paradigm. Cat Besch discussed how we can redirect the discourse to animal rights solutions that are better tailored to regional needs that also work for all species, including humans.
We are happy to invite you to our next animal law webinar on Zoom with Dr. Maria Baideldinova, the Assistant Professor of KIMEP University, on September 6th, 2021!
In this presentation, Maria will describe the currently existing legal provisions, which regulate the creation and functioning of dolphinariums in Kazakhstan, identify the gaps, and discuss the perspectives of legislative developments in this sphere.
Dr. Maria Baideldinova is an Assistant Professor of private law disciplines at KIMEP University, Kazakhstan, the author of the first Animal Law course in the region. As a member of Kazakhstan’s animal protection NGO and of the Animal Law Committee of the Chamber of Legal Consultants "KazBar," Maria participates in the work on the animal welfare draft law.
Open and Free to the public. Registration is required, find the link here.
Find more information on our Facebook event page.
International Homeless Animals Day
It's International Homeless Animals Day!
This day was created to recognize and remember all the animals that are wandering on the streets looking for any home and human companion. This day is also another reminder to raise awareness about the overpopulation of animals. The theme for this year is “Become part of the solution.”
Companion-animal overpopulation is a major issue in almost every country of the world, and there are numerous ways humans can help reduce the companion-animal overpopulation crisis. The first and major way to reduce overpopulation is to spay/neuter your animal and adopt them from the shelter rather than buying them from breeders or pet stores. Fostering dogs or cats is another way to help shelters that could continue saving other homeless animals from the streets.
There is a necessity to raise awareness in your community about the problem of companion-animal overpopulation and to educate the public about how we can eliminate the problem. The international community needs to take an interest in animal homelessness, and we all should help these communities and companion animals who cannot help themselves.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the homeless animals and how we can protect them;
Spay/neuter your companion animal;
Consider fostering animals from the shelter, so they could have more space to save other homeless animals;
Adopt - don't shop;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #InternationalHomelessAnimalsDay.
World Honey Bee Day
It's World Honey Bee Day!
This day was created to raise awareness about the honey bees, recognize their role in our ecosystem, and remember to provide them with a supportive environment.
Bees are critical animals in our lives, but their population continues declining in all parts of the world. Bees are mostly threatened by the use of toxic pesticides, habitat loss, and an increase in invasive farming methods and urban developments. Because of the climate crisis going on that leads to habitat alteration and loss, there is an urgent need to protect the honey bees that feed on plants. Changing lifestyle habits is the least what one could do to protect the species.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the honey bees and the major threats they face;
Raise awareness in your community about how we can protect them;
Plant at least one flower to provide more sources for the honey bees;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #WorldHoneyBeeDay.
Members of the Alliance for Animal Law of Asia are spread across the globe, and we are now happy to share our interview with Amy P. Wilson, the Co-founder and Director of Animal Law Reform South Africa, the first organization from the African continent that joined our Alliance!
Animal Law Reform South Africa (ALRSA) is the first dedicated animal law non-profit organization in South Africa, made up of a team of legal professionals, dedicated to the protection of animals, humans, and the environment. ALRSA’s three main pillars are Animal Well-being, Law, and Social Justice.
International Orangutan Day
It's International Orangutan Day!
This day is celebrated annually on August 19th and was created to promote the conservation of critically endangered orangutans and encourage strengthening their protection.
There are only approximately 50 000 - 65 000 orangutans left in the wild, and around 2000 - 3000 orangutans are killed every year. Moreover, orangutans have lost more than 80% of their natural habitat for the last 20 years, with an estimated one-third of the wild population dying during the fires of 1997-1998. During 1992-2000, the population of the Sumatran orangutan has declined by more than 50%. Estimates suggest there are as few as 6500 Sumatran orangutans in the wild. The population of Bornean orangutan fell nearly 43% in the past decade, from an estimated 35 000 in 1996 to 20 000 in 2006.
The major threats to orangutans include loss of habitat, deforestation, palm oil plantations, illegal hunting, illegal pet trade, etc. It is believed that due to these factors, orangutans could become extinct within the next 50 years.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the orangutans and the major threats they face;
Raise awareness in your community about how we can protect these animals;
Learn how changing your lifestyle and everyday habits may help protect orangutans;
Refrain from consuming palm oil that directly contributes to their population decline;
Report any illegal activity and urge the government to enact the regulations and enforce them;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #InternationalOrangutanDay.
Read our next series of news articles on the following topics:
The police investigation in Southern India after 300 stray dogs have been found dead;
Russian amendments on legalizing trophy hunting of endangered species;
Asian elephant herd's comeback after a 17-month journey;
A short film "Moon Bear Homecoming" after the rescue of 101 bears from bile farm;
The born of Singapore’s first giant panda cub; and
An Emirati farmer catching the honey badger after his livestock being killed.
World Lizard Day
It's World Lizard Day!
This day was created to raise awareness about these reptiles and to protect these animals. There are approximately 6000 species of lizards around the world, and they can be found on every continent except Antarctica.
Lizards sometimes are considered dangerous animals, however, only some species have venoms, such as the Gila monster, Mexican beaded lizards, and the Komodo dragon found in Indonesia, whose venom may kill a human. Lizards, like many other categories of animals, are mostly threatened by habitat loss and fragmentation that is driven by the climate crisis, human intervention, infrastructure development, logging. Other threats include invasive species, predation, and overexploitation.
A lot of people keep lizards as pets. For example, more than 9 million people in the United States have a lizard as a pet. Some of the most common pets include the African fire skink, chameleon, gecko, green iguana, long-tailed lizard, Chinese water dragon, and the bearded dragon.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the lizards and the major threats they face;
Raise awareness in your community about how we can protect these reptiles;
Learn how changing your lifestyle and everyday habits may help protect lizards;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #WorldLizardDay.
It's World Elephant Day!
This day was created to celebrate the protection of all elephants and to raise awareness about the importance to effectively protect them through law and policy.
Elephants face a lot of threats because of the high demand for the ivory trade. Illegal hunting is common among African and Asian elephants. Elephants are also poached for meat, leather, and body parts, with the illegal wildlife trade putting elephants increasingly in danger because it is perceived to be a low-risk and high-profit endeavor.
Elephants also suffer from habitat loss due to deforestation, mining, and agricultural activities, in particular, the species of Asian elephants. Asian elephants have lost approximately 30-40% of their habitat, making it incredibly difficult to maintain their offspring and themselves.
Unfortunately, elephants are kept in captivity, such as zoos, and exploited in entertainment, such as circuses and shows. Oftentimes, circuses that use animals in their performances, do not treat animals well and abuse them most of the time. Captivity can be a serious threat to elephants, and Asian elephants are often illegally captured in the wild and trafficked into the lucrative tourism industry.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the elephants and the major threats they face;
Raise awareness in your community about how we can protect these magnificent animals;
Consider volunteering with conservation groups and wildlife protection organizations;
Urge the government to create effective laws and enforce them to protect the elephants, ban ivory trade, and illegal hunting;
Refrain from visiting zoos, circuses, and shows with animals;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #WorldElephantDay.
We are happy to announce our next free animal law webinar on Zoom with Cat Besch, the Founder of Vietnam Animal Aid and Rescue - U.S., on August 20th, 2021!
Protecting animals of all species requires understanding the unique political, economic, and cultural context of the target community which varies from country to country, and conservation of marine ecosystems is no different. While speciesism is the dominant worldview and prevalent even in most animal protection movements, the success of sea life protections requires a shift in that paradigm. In this presentation, Cat Besch will discuss how we can redirect the discourse to animal rights solutions that are better tailored to regional needs that also work for all species, including humans.
Cat Besch is an American animal rights activist and the founder and director of Vietnam Animal Aid and Rescue - U.S., a rescue shelter and farm sanctuary in Hoi An. Cat has extensive experience in rehabilitation work but also focuses on addressing global animal rights issues through the lens of regional political, economic, and cultural contexts.
Open and Free to the public. Registration is required, find the link here.
Find more information on our Facebook event page.
World Lion Day
It's World Lion Day!
This day was created by the Big Cat Rescue to raise awareness about these majestic animals and to find all possible ways on how to protect these cats and their habitat.
Lions are apex predators and one of the largest land animals in the world. Lions are mostly threatened by trophy hunting, reduction in food, and human incursion. Lions' population has dramatically decreased and is still declining to the point where the species are categorized as endangered.
Approximately 3 million years ago, lions freely roamed all over Africa and Eurasia, but currently, their number decreased due to various factors, including ice ages, climate change, poaching. The IUCN Red List lists lions under the "Vulnerable" category. Now, there are approximately 30 000 - 100 000 lions left.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the lions and the major threats they face;
Raise awareness in your community about how we can protect these animals;
Consider volunteering with conservation groups, wildlife protection organizations;
Urge the government to create effective laws and enforce them to protect the lions;
Consider writing a blog post or an article on the importance to protect lions;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #WorldLionDay.
We are happy to share another pre-recorded animal law webinar with Erika Techera, the Professor of Law of The University of Western Australia! The event was organized under the Project “Enhancing Legal Regulations for Aquatic Animals in Kazakhstan.”
Some sharks, rays, and chimaera are top predators, and others are harmless filter feeders, but most are poorly understood. Yet it is known that many of them play an important role in our marine ecosystems but are under increasing pressure, largely from fishing. In this presentation, Erika introduced these amazing animals, outlined their importance and conservation status, and explored threats to them, as well as explained the laws for their conservation and management.
International Cat Day
It's International Cat Day!
This day is celebrated annually on August 8 and was created by the International Fund for Animal Welfare in 2002 to raise awareness about cats and learn how to protect them.
Despite all stereotypes, cats are very caring and loving domestic animals. The first records about cats were found in Ancient Egyptian Civilization’s culture. Mafdet was the first known cat deity and was regarded as the protector against snakes, scorpions, and evil during the First Dynasty.
Many cats are kept as pets but even more of them are wandering on the streets and living in shelters looking for their forever home. Stray cats are subjected to cruelty and injuries due to car accidents and other harmful situations, including cruel treatment from humans.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the cats and their general characteristics;
Raise awareness in your community about how we can protect these animals;
Consider volunteering with shelters, foster, and/or adopt a cat;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #InternationalCatDay.
Read our twentieth series of news articles on the following topics:
Beyond Pork's opening in China with a new DTC e-commerce site;
Indonesia sending more tuna vessels to international waters;
China's ban on imported cattle and cattle products from Laos;
The seizure of endangered totoaba species in Hong Kong;
Efforts to save Asia’s hoolock gibbons; and
The rapid decline in Southeast Asian tigers.
It's International Clouded Leopard Day!
This day was created to raise global awareness about these animals and to increase the profile of Clouded leopards.
Clouded leopards are wildcats inhabiting dense forests from the foothills of the Himalayas through mainland Southeast Asia into South China. These animals are mostly threatened by habitat loss following large–scale deforestation and commercial poaching for the wildlife trade. They are also popular in the wildlife trade for their skins, claws, and teeth for the purposes of decoration and clothing.
The clouded leopard is listed in CITES Appendix I and protected in the range-countries. For instance, hunting is banned in Bangladesh, China, India, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, and Vietnam. In the United States, the clouded leopard is classified as Endangered under the Endangered Species Act, which makes it illegal to trade in the animal or their body parts.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the clouded leopards, threats they face, and conservation efforts;
Raise awareness in your community about how we can protect this species;
Consider volunteering with organizations that work on the conservation of clouded leopards;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #InternationalCloudedLeopardDay.
In our July Newsletter, you will find 7 research articles, two volumes of our news digest Asia Animal Law Bulletin, 4 species of animals in Animal Calendar, and the celebration of international animal holidays.
It's International Assistance Dog Week!
This day was created to recognize all the devoted, hardworking assistance dogs helping individuals mitigate their disability-related limitations, raise awareness and educate the public about assistance dogs, and recognize heroic deeds performed by assistance dogs in our communities. International Assistance Dog Week was established due to the efforts of Marcie Davis, a paraplegic for over 35 years and CEO of Davis Innovations, a consulting firm based in Santa Fe, NM. Davis is the author of Working Like Dogs: The Service Dog Guidebook, a resource book that captures personal stories, checklists, and practical tips to provide the reader with an A-Z guide about service dogs.
Assistance dogs, otherwise known as service dogs, are trained to aid or assist people with disabilities. Assistance dogs transform the lives of their human partners with debilitating physical and mental disabilities by serving as their companion, helper, aide, best friend, and close member of their family.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the service dogs, selection, and their training features;
Raise awareness in your community about why assistance or service dogs are important;
Consider volunteering with organizations that train service dogs;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #InternationalAssistanceDogWeek.
International Tiger Day
It's International Tiger Day!
This day was created to raise awareness about these endangered wild cats. This day is celebrated annually on July 29th around the world and was founded in 2010, when the 13 tiger range countries came together to create Tx2 – the global goal to double the number of wild tigers by the year 2022. The theme of this year for the holiday is "Their Survival is in our hands."
Tigers are royal and majestic animals who play an important role in maintaining the health and diversity of an ecosystem. They are one of the top predators and keep the population of wild ungulates in check, so the balance of prey herbivores and the vegetation upon which they feed is maintained. The major threats to these animals now include habitat loss, hunting, and illegal trading of tiger’s body parts. Unfortunately, tigers are also among the species of animals that are on the edge of extinction.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the different species of tigers, their characteristics, and the threats that are posed to them;
Raise awareness in your community about how we can save the wildlife by urging the public and the government to regulate and manage wildlife population with strict laws and proper enforcement;
Consider volunteering with animal organizations or conservation groups either locally or remotely to help save these animals;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #InternationalTigerDay or #GlobalTigerDay.
We are delighted to share another successfully held webinar organized by the Institute of Animal Law of Asia with Jamie Woodhouse, the Founder of sentientism.info and the Host of the Sentientist Podcast Conversations series! The event was organized under the Project “Enhancing Legal Regulations for Aquatic Animals in Kazakhstan.”
In this presentation, Jamie explained what Sentientism is, where it came from, why everyone should agree with it, and how it can help us fix all of the world’s problems – for non-human and human sentients alike.
We are delighted to announce our next guest speaker in the webinar series, Erika Techera, the Professor of Law of The University of Western Australia, on August 3, 2021!
Some sharks, rays, and chimaera are top predators, and others are harmless filter feeders, but most are poorly understood. Yet it is known that many of them play an important role in our marine ecosystems but are under increasing pressure, largely from fishing. In this presentation, Erika will introduce these amazing animals, outline their importance and conservation status, and explore threats to them, before explaining the laws for their conservation and management.
Erika Techera specializes in international and comparative environmental law with a particular focus on Indo-Pacific oceans governance. Erika has been researching and writing about shark law and policy for over a decade. She has published over 100 papers/chapters including many on shark conservation. She is the co-author of International Law of Sharks (Brill, 2017) and co-editor of Sharks: Conservation, Governance and Management (Routledge, 2014).
Open and Free to the public. Registration is required, find the link here.
Find more information on our Facebook event page.
Read our nineteenth series of news articles on the following topics:
The comeback of critically endangered saiga antelope;
Threats to tiger's habitat due to Malaysia's mining plans;
China's announcement of giant pandas no longer being endangered in the wild;
Flourishing of green peafowls in Thailand;
Sumatran elephant found beheaded in Indonesia; and
Fishermen's effort to save endangered Pakistan dolphins.
World Snake Day
It’s World Snake Day!
This day was created to raise awareness about the different types of snake species and the important role that they play in maintaining ecological balance.
There are more than 3500 species of snakes in the world, but only 600 of them are considered venomous. Snakes, like some other animals, are displayed as dangerous animals for many people, however, they are important living beings in our world.
The population of snakes decreases due to deforestation and climate change causing the fragmentation and degradation of their habitats. Snakes are also hunted for their skin that is widely used in clothes and accessories, and some keep snakes as pets.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the snakes, their importance in the ecosystem, and the threats they face;
Raise awareness about the necessity to stop hunting, animal exploitation, and going leather-free;
Watch educational documentaries about snakes and reptiles;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #WorldSnakeDay.
It’s Shark Awareness Day!
This day was created to highlight the importance of sharks in our lives and the entire ecosystem.
Sharks are one of the oldest species in the marine environment, they arouse approximately 400 million years ago. They are the apex predators in the marine environment, maintain and keep our oceans healthy.
Approximately 100 million sharks are killed annually, tens of millions of them are killed for food consumption. The major threat for the sharks' population is fishing, which also includes bycatch. Sharks are caught for the shark finning process, after which fins are put on the market for decoration or shark fin soup. Catching the aquatic species of animals causes extreme stress, but shark finning is an extremely cruel practice.
There is an urgent need to elevate the status of sharks in the legal system and there is a necessity to stop fishing and overfishing activities that greatly impact the population of these aquatic animals, as well as other aquatic animals that are dependent on each other in the marine environment.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the sharks and rays, their general characteristics, and the threats they face;
Raise awareness about the necessity to stop fishing activities that harm sharks species and the marine environment;
Consider donations to the organizations that work on the conservation and management of sharks;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #SharkAwarenessDay.
In our June Newsletter, you will find 6 research articles, two volumes of our news digest Asia Animal Law Bulletin, 7 species of animals, and international and U.S. animal holidays. We also welcomed the new member in the Alliance for Animal Law of Asia and held two animal law webinars.
We are happy to share our next animal law webinar with Jamie Woodhouse, the Founder of sentientism.info, on July 20th, 2021!
In this presentation, Jamie will explain what Sentientism is, where it came from, why everyone should agree with it, and how it can help us to fix all of the world’s problems – for non-human and human sentients alike.
Jamie is an animal advocate, consultant, coach, and volunteer. He works primarily on the Sentientism worldview by refining the philosophy, raising awareness of the idea, and building communities and movements around it. He is also the host of the Sentientist Podcast Conversations series where he and his guests discuss the two main questions "what's real?" and "what matters?"
Open and Free to the public. Registration is required, find the link here.
Find more information on our Facebook event page.
Read our eighteenth series of news articles on the following topics:
The end of bear performances in one of Vietnam's circuses;
Deforestation of endangered wildlife habitat in Myanmar;
A study on impregnating male rats;
The seizure of the pet lion in Cambodia after the released video;
The impact of unregulated trade in Indonesian porcupines; and
Ship spills causing dead animals ashore in Sri Lanka.
We are happy to share another successfully held webinar organized by the Institute of Animal Law of Asia with Jennifer Kirsch, the Research and Project Strategist of Fish Welfare Initiative! The event was organized under the Project “Enhancing Legal Regulations for Aquatic Animals in Kazakhstan.”
Common practices in aquaculture and fisheries infringe on fish welfare and cause prolonged suffering. This presentation covered the status of aquaculture and fisheries, how these industries handle fish, and what can be done to improve fishes’ welfare in these systems.
We are glad to inform you that all our webinars, apart from our YouTube Channel, can now be found on our Events Page!
In 2021, the Institute of Animal Law of Asia has already organized the World Aquatic Animal Day Webinar with five panelists from across the globe, including Diego Plaza Casanova, Madison Steffey, Dr. Teale Phelps Bondaroff, Lakshmi Venkataraman, Gary Stokes, and hosted Kevin Schneider, Professor Gary Francione, Maddy Dawe, Jennifer Kirsch, and there will be many more coming soon.
Do not forget to check out our Events Page to watch our animal law webinars as well as our YouTube Channel!
We are happy to share our next interview within the Alliance for Animal Law of Asia with Ms. Sirjana Nijjar, the Senior Manager of the Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisations (FIAPO).
Federation of Indian Animal Protection Organisations (FIAPO) is India's apex animal rights organization. As the collective voice of the animal rights movement in India, FIAPO is the catalyst that protects the rights and interests of animals at local and national levels. FIAPO was the first animal organization from Asia that joined the Alliance for Animal Law of Asia. We are delighted to be able to share the organization's perspective, approach, and vision of animal law in India and globally.
It's World Giraffe Day!
This day was created by the Giraffe Conservation Foundation to raise awareness about these animals and shed light on the challenges that giraffes face.
There are approximately 117 000 individuals left in the wild, and their population declines each year. The major threats for these animals include habitat loss, civil unrest, illegal hunting, and ecological changes, such as climate change and habitat conversion.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the giraffes, their characteristics, and threats they face;
Consider donations to the organizations working on the conservation and protection of these animals;
Spread the word by sharing on social media and using the hashtag #WorldGiraffeDay.
Read our seventeenth series of news articles on the following topics:
Wildlife trafficking going online during the pandemic;
The Animals Asia's rescue of 101 bears from bear bile farms in China;
Magawa the Rat retiring from job detecting landmines;
The first Asiatic lioness dying from COVID-19 in India;
NGOs are back to saving Indian Ocean yellowfin tuna; and
Israel becoming the first country to ban the sale of most fur clothing.
Institute of Animal Law of Asia successfully held the webinar with the guest speaker, Maddy Dawe, the Campaigns Coordinator of the Humane League UK! The event was organized under the Project “Enhancing Legal Regulations for Aquatic Animals in Kazakhstan.”
In this presentation, Maddy discussed how aquatic animals have the capacity to suffer much like our companion animals, and the welfare issues associated with our consumption of fish and other aquatic species. She also talked about the importance of urgently protecting aquatic animals in the legal system, the current situation for aquatic animals in UK law, and how The Humane League UK is working to change the lives of fish for the better.
We are happy to announce our next animal law webinar with Jennifer Kirsch, the Research and Project Strategist of Fish Welfare Initiative, on June 28th, 2021!
Common practices in aquaculture and fisheries infringe on fish welfare and cause prolonged suffering. This presentation will cover the status of aquaculture and fisheries, how these industries handle fish, and what can be done to improve fishes’ welfare in these systems.
Jennifer's work focuses on alleviating the suffering of fish in aquaculture systems and fisheries. To achieve this goal, Jennifer works with stakeholders from industry, government, and nonprofit organizations around the world.
Open and Free to the public. Registration is required, find the link here.
Find more information on our Facebook event page.
It's World Oceans Day!
This day was created by the United Nations to raise awareness about the Earth's oceans and the necessity to protect them. The theme for this year is “The Ocean: Life and Livelihoods.”
Oceans cover the overwhelming majority of Earth, and our lives depend on keeping the oceans healthy. The ocean produces at least 50% of the planet’s oxygen and it is the main source of protein for more than a billion people around the world.
Currently, approximately 90% of big fish populations are depleted and 50% of coral reefs are destroyed, and there is an urgent need to protect and preserve the ocean. Lots of aquatic animals are dependent on our everyday life use. It is important to advocate for animals and take necessary steps to prevent fishing, illegal fishing, overfishing, plastic pollution, etc.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the importance of the oceans in our lives and their inhabitants;
Visit the coast and observe the ocean, if you have a chance;
Reduce single-plastic use and recycle properly;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #WorldOceansDay;
Advocate for animals who need our help in creating a healthy environment for them.
National Black Bear Day
It's National Black Bear Day in the U.S.!
This day was created to raise awareness about the black bears, threats that they face, and strengthen national efforts to conserve these animals.
Black bears are found in 40 states and every Canadian province, the black bear’s enormous range is only beaten by one other four-legged mammal, the whitetail deer.
According to North Carolina Black Bear Biologist, Colleen Olfenbuttel, coastal North Carolina has the largest black bears on the planet. The current world record and the previous world record came from North Carolina. In North Carolina black bears have access to high protein crops and enjoy mild winters – which is why they are so many bears and grow to be so enormous there.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the black bears and their general characteristics;
Visit a national park/natural reserve to observe black bears in their natural habitat;
Spread the word by sharing on social media and using the hashtag #NationalBlackBearDay.
In our May Newsletter, you will find 9 research articles, two volumes of our news digest Asia Animal Law Bulletin, 6 species of animals in Animal Calendar, and a celebration of international and U.S. animal holidays. We have also welcomed the new member in the Alliance for Animal Law of Asia, an international campaign that aims to cooperate with national, regional, and global animal organizations.
Read our sixteenth series of news articles on the following topics:
Burying saiga antelopes alive in Kazakhstan;
The arrest of the Delhi Youtuber for animal cruelty;
The Vietnamese hotel group's commitment to shift to cage-free eggs;
A 400-km march of Asian elephants in China;
Returning of the world's tiniest pig to the wild; and
A plastic pellet problem in Sri Lanka.
Institute of Animal Law of Asia successfully held the webinar with the guest speaker, Professor Gary L. Francione, the Board of Governors Professor of Law at Rutgers University School of Law! The event was organized under the Project “Enhancing Legal Regulations for Aquatic Animals in Kazakhstan.”
In his presentation, Professor Francione discussed the six principles of the Abolitionist theory he has pioneered.
Institute of Animal Law of Asia is happy to announce its next animal law webinar, featuring Maddy Dawe, the Campaigns Coordinator of the Humane League UK, on June 11th, 2021!
In this presentation, Maddy will discuss how aquatic animals have the capacity to suffer much like our companion animals, and the welfare issues associated with our consumption of fish and other aquatic species. She will also talk about the importance of urgently protecting aquatic animals in the legal system, the current situation for aquatic animals in UK law, and how The Humane League UK is working to change the lives of fish for the better.
Maddy Dawe is a campaigner for The Humane League UK, an organization working to end the abuse of animals raised for food which has been named Top Charity by Animal Charity Evaluators for every rating period. Since joining THL UK, Maddy has coordinated hard-hitting corporate and legislative campaigns. In 2020, she started campaigning for better legal protections for farmed fish in the UK and working to raise awareness of aquatic animal welfare.
Open and Free to the public. Registration is required, find the link here.
Find more information on our Facebook event page.
World Otter Day
It's World Otter Day!
This day was created by the International Otter Survival Fund (IOSF) to raise awareness about otters, threats that they face, and means for protection. This day was originally Otterly Mad Week in 2009 but became International Otter Awareness Day in 2014. Finally, in 2016, it was officially proclaimed as World Otter Day.
Otters are found almost everywhere on Earth, particularly in the Pacific Ocean. Otters are threatened by human activities, such as fishing gear entanglements, boat strikes, oil spills, pollution, etc. It is important to take action now to prevent these animals from being in danger.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the otters, their characteristics, and the threats that they face;
Consider donations to the organizations that work on protecting otters;
Spread the word by sharing on social media and using the hashtag #WorldOtterDay.
Institute of Animal Law of Asia works on supporting animal advocacy and animal law movement in Asian countries where animal law is weak or non-existent. We are working on changing the public's minds among the diverse communities of Asia and raising awareness and educating individuals on the emerging field of law by providing news, research articles, and educational materials.
We have launched our own shop where you can support our work by sponsoring one of our research projects, including but not limited to projects on companion animals, wild animals, aquatic animals, and farmed animals.
You can also support one of our webinars/online events. We are committed to organize these and invite speakers from across the globe, including animal law experts, where they will share their knowledge and discuss various animal law topics, as well as the most pressing animal law issues within their jurisdiction. These events help us raise awareness about the important animal protection topics and enhance education among any interested individuals.
Moreover, you can donate to fund our translation services as we are covering a wide range of countries with diverse communities, thus different languages.
It's World Turtle Day!
This day was created by the American Tortoise Rescue to raise awareness and recognize the importance of turtles and tortoises in our lives and encourage people to take action to protect these animals.
Turtles, like many other aquatic animal species, are threatened by a dozen factors, including bycatch, climate change, and plastic pollution. Turtles play an important role in ocean ecosystems by maintaining healthy seagrass beds and coral reefs, providing key habitats for other marine life, helping to balance marine food webs, and facilitating nutrient cycling from water to land.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the turtles and the threats they face;
Refrain from using single-use items (masks, straws, bottles) that harm the marine life;
Consider donations to organizations that work to conserve and protect turtles and tortoises;
Spread the word by sharing on social media and using the hashtag #WorldTurtleDay.
It's International Day for Biological Diversity!
This day is a United Nations–sanctioned international day for the promotion of biodiversity issues, held annually on May 22. This day also falls within the scope of the UN Post-2015 Development Agenda's Sustainable Development Goals.
Biodiversity Day 2021 is being celebrated under the slogan: "We're part of the solution #ForNature". The slogan was chosen to be a continuation of the momentum generated last year under the over-arching theme, “Our solutions are in nature,” which served as a reminder that biodiversity remains the answer to several sustainable development challenges. From nature-based solutions to climate, health issues, food and water security, and sustainable livelihoods, biodiversity is the foundation upon which we can build back better.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the endangered species in your area and threats they face;
Refrain from buying the products made out of endangered flora and fauna;
Consider donations to a recognized wildlife organization;
Spread the word by sharing on social media using the hashtag #ForNature and #InternationalDayforBiologicalDiversity.
Endangered Species Day
It's Endangered Species Day in the U.S.!
This day was created to raise awareness and recognize the national efforts to conserve and protect endangered species and their habitats.
Endangered species in the United States are protected by the Endangered Species Act, the 40th anniversary of which was in 2013. The Act is administered by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This day is another opportunity to learn more about the endangered species of animals and plants and how we can help protect them.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the endangered species of animals and plants and the threats that they are facing;
Consider donations to the conservation group or wildlife organizations that work to protect endangered species;
Spread the word sharing on social media using the hashtag #EndangeredSpeciesDay.
It’s World Bee Day!
This day was created by the United Nations to raise awareness of the importance of bees, the threats that they face, and their contribution to sustainable development.
Most of the 25 000 to 30 000 species of bees, the ambassadors of pollinators, help a lot of food crops and plants reproduce. Apart from ensuring the abundance of fruits, nuts, seeds, bees also help improve the quality and increase the variety of foods we consume. There are other pollinators among animals, such as bats, non-flying mammals (rodents, lemurs, tree squirrels), and some birds (hummingbirds, sunbirds, honeycreepers).
Bees are currently threatened with an extinction rate of 100 to 1000 times higher than normal due to anthropogenic activities, namely intensive farming practices, land-use change, mono-cropping, climate change, etc. There is a need to take action because the nutritious crop can result in a decrease and lead to an imbalanced diet.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the bees and why they are important in our lives;
Avoid using pesticides that can harm bees and use them in windless weather early in the morning or late at night when bees withdraw from blossoms;
Plant nectar-bearing flowers;
Spread the word sharing on social media using the hashtag #WorldBeeDay and #SaveTheBees.
Read our fifteenth series of news articles on the following topics:
Illegal dog and cat mailing in Southwestern China;
The escape of 3 leopards from the zoo in China;
Concerns for the latest mass stranding of Caspian seals;
A journey of mistreated zebras to Iranian zoo;
The return and vanishment of a rarely seen owl in Indonesia; and
18 elephants killed by lightning in India.
Institute of Animal Law of Asia is delighted to announce the animal law webinar featuring Gary L. Francione, the Board of Governors Professor of Law at Rutgers University School of Law, on May 29th, 2021!
In his presentation, Professor Francione will discuss the six principles of the Abolitionist theory he has pioneered.
Gary L. Francione is Board of Governors Professor of Law at Rutgers University School of Law, Visiting Professor of Philosophy at the University of Lincoln, U.K., and Honorary Professor of Philosophy at the University of East Anglia, U.K. Professor Francione is the author of numerous books and articles on animal rights theory. He has developed the Abolitionist theory of animal rights and maintains that veganism is a moral imperative.
Open and Free to the public. Registration is required, find the link here.
Find more information on our Facebook event page.
It's World Migratory Bird Day!
This day was created to raise awareness about migratory birds and to highlight their importance in the ecosystem.
“Sing, Fly, Soar – Like a Bird!” is the theme of this year. This year the campaign will focus on the phenomena of “bird song” and “bird flight” as a way to inspire and connect people of all ages around the world in their shared desire to celebrate migratory birds and to unite in a common, global effort to protect birds and the habitats they need to survive.
The 2021 World Migratory Bird Day theme is an invitation to people everywhere to connect and re-connect with nature by actively listening to - and watching birds - wherever they are. At the same time, the theme appeals to people around the world to use their own voices and creativity to express their shared appreciation of birds and nature.
READ ABOUT MIGRATORY BIRD PROTECTION IN ASIA
WORLD MIGRATORY BIRD DAY 2021
Institute of Animal Law of Asia successfully held the webinar with the guest speaker, Kevin Schneider, the Executive Director of the Nonhuman Rights Project (NhRP)! The event is organized under the Project “Enhancing Legal Regulations for Aquatic Animals in Kazakhstan.”
In his presentation, Kevin talked about the NhRP's work, discussed what it means to be a legal "thing" with no rights instead of a legal "person" with fundamental rights, the historic progress the NhRP has made since it filed its first nonhuman rights lawsuits in 2013, as well as the past and ongoing cases.
In our April Newsletter, you will find 9 research articles, two volumes of our news digest Asia Animal Law Bulletin, 6 species of animals in Animal Calendar, and a celebration of international and U.S. animal holidays. We have also welcomed the new member in the Alliance for Animal Law of Asia, an international campaign that aims to cooperate with national, regional, and global animal organizations.
Read our fourteenth series of news articles on the following topics:
South Korean animal rescue organizations saving dogs at former slaughterhouses;
Reasons for pilot whale mass stranding in Indonesia;
First virtual AfA Conference 2021;
GPS collars for tigers in Nepal;
Turning the spotlight on Asia’s smallest feline; and
The surge in elephant electrocutions in Sri Lanka.
It's International Respect for Chickens Day!
This day was created by the United Poultry Concerns in 2005 to raise awareness about these amazing birds that oftentimes are left unattended.
Chickens are smart and social animals, capable of feeling pain and suffering. However, they are cruelly exploited in various fields. Billions of chickens are slaughtered every year for food consumption and also used in research to study vision, embryonic development, environmental toxicity testing, etc. Sadly, anti-cruelty regulations do not apply to chickens, and they remain unprotected in the legal system.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the chickens, their natural behavior and needs;
Urge the government to protect chickens by law;
Consider visiting a farm sanctuary and socialize with chickens;
Spread the word and share on social media using the hashtag #InternationalRespectForChickensDay.
It's Wild Koala Day!
This day was created to highlight the importance of wild koalas in the ecosystem. Due to the recent wildfires, koalas have experienced huge habitat loss. Koalas are also threatened by increased disturbance by humans. One of the major reasons for the extreme weather conditions is climate change that is caused by anthropogenic activities.
Humans are the biggest problem for wild koalas, yet we can help save these animals and prevent the decrease of their population. It is important to start taking into consideration our treatment of the environment and our planet in general.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about these animals and the threats they are facing;
Learn more about climate change and its effect on our animals, the environment, and the planet;
Volunteer with your local organizations/conservation groups to help and contribute to the protection of koalas;
Consider donations to the organizations that work on protecting and saving koalas.
World Tuna Day
It's World Tuna Day!
This day was created to raise awareness and highlight the importance of tuna fish and ensure their protection.
More than 96 countries are working on the conservation and management of tuna. In certain areas, the major threat to tuna is fishing and overfishing activities, and some species - the southern bluefin tuna - made the species near extinction.
Tuna are unique aquatic creatures and are capable of maintaining their bodies' temperature above that of the surrounding water. Tuna consumes different species of fish, such as mackerel, herring, squids, and crustaceans. Tuna, like many other species of fish, are able to suffer and feel pain.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the tuna, their characteristics, and threats;
Read about the fish sentience and learn how fishing activities can harm tuna;
Urge the government and the public to include tuna into the legal instruments within your country/region/area;
Share the information on social media using the hashtag #WorldTunaDay.
It's Save the Rhino Day!
This day is celebrated annually on May 1 all over the world to raise awareness about the plight of the rhinoceros in the wild.
The genus consists of 2 species: the Indian Rhinoceros and the Javan Rhinoceros. Both species are currently endangered, while there are only 60 individuals of the Javan Rhino in the world.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the rhinoceros, threats they face, and how we can help them;
Dedicate a blog post, share it on social media using the hashtag #SavetheRhinoDay;
Volunteer with organizations that work on the conservation of the rhinos.
We are sad to announce that Steven Wise will not be able to present his lecture “The Global Struggle for Nonhuman Rights” this Saturday. Instead, the Institute of Animal Law of Asia will host Kevin Schneider, the Executive Director of the Nonhuman Rights Project, on the same day/time, May 1st, 1 pm PT/4 pm ET, with the same topic.
In this lecture, Kevin Schneider what it means to be a legal "thing" with no rights instead of a legal "person" with fundamental rights, and the historic progress the NhRP has made since it filed its first nonhuman rights lawsuits in 2013.
Kevin Schneider earned his law degree from Florida State University in 2013 with a specialization in environmental and land use law. He graduated with a B.A. in political science from the University of Massachusetts, Boston, in 2009. In addition to his interest in nonhuman rights and personhood, Kevin is an advocate for reforming the food system with a focus on plant-based foods.
Free and Open to the public.
Please see our Facebook event page here.
World Penguin Day
It's World Penguin Day!
This day was created to raise awareness about these animals and to highlight their importance in the entire ecosystem. This day also takes place during the annual northern migration of Adélie penguins.
At present, there are approximately 17 species of penguins in the world, among them, 10 species are considered Endangered or Vulnerable and 3 are listed as Near Threatened, according to the IUCN Red List. The major threats for penguins include overfishing, pollution, plastic and oil spills, and, of course, climate change that affects their habitat. It is important for each of us to take small steps to protect these animals.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the penguins, their habitat, and general characteristics;
Consider donations to the organizations that work on conserving these animals;
Raise awareness among your family, friends, colleagues about the threats that penguins are facing;
Learn more about how we can help save these animals and share on social media using the hashtag #WorldPenguinDay.
It's World Day for Laboratory Animals!
This day was created in 1979 by the Animal Defenders International and celebrated annually on April 24th to commemorate animals who suffer in laboratories.
Animals are tested in laboratories for cosmetics, household items, skincare products, etc. Unfortunately, animal testing is not banned completely, but more than 40 countries/regions have already banned or limited animal testing for cosmetics purposes (India, Israel, Taiwan, New Zealand, Turkey, EU, etc). The majority of countries use the 3R Principles (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement) to ensure that animals in laboratories do not experience unnecessary pain and suffering.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the animals used in laboratories;
Try buying cruelty-free products, that includes shampoo, facial toners, laundry detergent, dish soap, etc;
Raise awareness about the suffering of animals in laboratories and share on social media using the hashtag #WorldDayforAnimalsinLaboratories.
READ OUR BLOG ON THE PROTECTION OF ANIMALS IN LABORATORIES IN ASIA
It's Earth Day 2021!
Earth Day is an annual celebration on April 22nd and was created in 1970 to highlight support for the protection of our planet, including animals, the environment, and all living beings.
For the past hundreds of years, Earth has altered in many ways. It, unfortunately, continues to change due to the climate change effect that is caused by anthropogenic activities. The latest events around the world - wildfires, ice storms - especially demonstrated that there is an urgent need to take into consideration our everyday life habits. Habitat degradation is one of the dominant causes for a lot of species of animals becoming vulnerable, endangered, or even extinct. Fishing and overfishing activities are other issues that harm animals, the environment, and our planet in general.
If measures and necessary steps from each of us are not taken now, our planet may simply disappear.
Guest Lecture
Institute of Animal Law of Asia is delighted to announce the guest lecture of Steven M. Wise, the founder and the president of the Nonhuman Rights Project, on May 1, 2021!
In this lecture, Steven Wise will discuss how and why he founded the Nonhuman Rights Project, what it means to be a legal "thing" with no rights instead of a legal "person" with fundamental rights, and the historic progress the NhRP has made since it filed its first nonhuman rights lawsuits in 2013.
Steven M. Wise began his mission to gain rights for nonhuman animals in 1985. Professor Wise taught the first class in “Animal Rights Law” at the Harvard Law School and has taught “Animal Rights Jurisprudence” at the Stanford Law School, as well as the University of Miami, St. Thomas, and John Marshall Law Schools, and is currently teaching “Animal Rights Jurisprudence” at the Lewis and Clark Law School and Vermont Law School.
Free and Open to the public.
Read our thirteenth series of news articles on the following topics:
Opening of the first Beyond Meat manufacturing facility in China;
A 6-foot monitor lizard at the convenience store in Thailand;
Two dead whales on Bangladesh beach;
The Kaavan movie announcement;
The growth of the greater one-horned rhinoceros in Nepal; and
Japan's release of the treated Fukushima water into the sea.
New Logo of the Alliance for Animal Law of Asia
We are pleased to present the new logo of the Alliance for Animal Law of Asia!
The Alliance for Animal Law of Asia (AALA) is a campaign to cooperate with animal organizations for establishing networks for the law and policy information, educational sources, and activities of Animal Law of Asia initiated and organized by the Institute of Animal Law of Asia (IALA). The Alliance aims to improve the awareness of legal protection for animals in Asia and the world through legal education, collaboration, online events and webinars, and inviting experts to share their experience with our audience.
The Members of the Alliance are spread across the globe from Asian organizations in China, India, and Vietnam to the organizations in other areas, including North America, South America, Europe, and Africa. If you are interested in joining, please fill out the form on the Alliance page.
Save the Elephant Day
It's Save the Elephant Day!
This day was created to raise awareness and highlight the importance of elephants and threats that they face, which are habitat loss and poaching/ivory trade - both are due to human activities.
Elephants are extremely intelligent and highly communicative animals living in complex social structures. They have demonstrated the ability to display various emotions, such as joy, anger, grief.
Currently, there are 3 species distributed in Africa and Asia: the African bush elephant, the African forest elephant, and the Asian elephant.
The Asian elephant is listed in Appendix I of CITES, which does not allow trade, except for certain circumstances. The African bush elephant species is listed both in Appendix I and II depending on their habitat. Those elephants inhabiting Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe are included in Appendix II. Elephants inhabiting other African countries are listed under Appendix I.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about these animals and their general characteristics;
Consider donations to the conservation groups that work on saving the population of elephants;
Avoid visiting zoos, instead consider going to the sanctuary;
Observe elephants in their natural habitat;
Report to the authorities, if you witness any illegal activity.
National Dolphin Day
It's National Dolphin Day in the U.S.!
This day is another opportunity to recognize these extremely intelligent marine mammals inhabiting our oceans.
Dolphins are known for being highly social creatures having a well-developed sense of touch. Unfortunately, thousands of dolphins are mostly threatened by fishing for the purposes of consumption in some countries and entertainment in every part of the world, i.e, aquariums/seaquariums, which deprive them of performing their natural behavior.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the dolphins and their characteristics;
Learn the difference between dolphins' life in the wild and in captivity;
Refrain from visiting dolphin shows, aquariums/seaquariums;
Consider donations to the conservation groups that work on saving the dolphins;
Dedicate a blog post and share it on social media using the hashtag #NationalDolphinDay.
We are pleased to announce that the Institute of Animal Law of Asia joined Asia for Animals Coalition (AfA) as a supporting organization!
We are delighted to be part of such a huge animal protection community.
AfA was also among the first organizations that joined the Alliance for Animal Law of Asia, an international campaign that was initiated by the Institute of Animal Law of Asia and aims to cooperate with animal organizations for establishing networks for the law and policy information, educational sources, and animal law activities.
We are pleased to welcome the new member of the Alliance for Animal Law of Asia, an international campaign that aims to cooperate with national, regional, and global animal organizations.
Our new member is Think Tank on Animals & Biodiversity at the Global Research Network, the focus of which is to provide meaningful insights on animal studies from an interdisciplinary perspective.
With animal law issues occurring around the world, global participation is more than necessary. Raising the necessity to protect animals by means of law and policy can be improved through cooperating with animal organizations from all over the world.
If you are interested in collaborating with us, please visit our Alliance page.
In our March Newsletter, you will find 9 research articles, two volumes of our news digest Asia Animal Law Bulletin, 5 species of animals in Animal Calendar, and a celebration of international and U.S. animal holidays. We have also welcomed the new member in the Alliance for Animal Law of Asia, an international campaign that aims to cooperate with national, regional, and global animal organizations.
It's International Beaver Day!
April 7th is an annual day to raise awareness about these amazing animals!
Beavers are mostly threatened by habitat degradation and habitat destruction. Their population declined due to hunting for their fur and for their glands in medicine.
The Eurasian beaver whose population ranges across European and Asian countries has been hunted to near-extinction, and, according to the last data, only 1200 species survived in the wild.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about these animals, the threats that they face, and how we can help them;
Share the information on social media using the hashtag #InternationalBeaverDay;
Take a hike to a pond or a river to observe beavers in the wild.
Read our twelfth series of news articles on the following topics:
Thailand authorities seizing $11 million in wildlife trafficking;
Helmeted hornbill receiving a protection boost in Thailand;
A new pack with Southeastern Asia animals in the PC game "Planet Zoo";
Hong Kong's first vegan cheese shop;
A rare sighting of the Amur leopard in Russia; and
Russia's first COVID-19 vaccine for animals.
We are happy to announce that the Institute of Animal Law of Asia now has its YouTube channel!
You will find all the work that we are doing, educational materials, and resources on animal law in our videos.
Please follow us and stay tuned for more updates!
World Stray Animals Day
It's World Stray Animals Day!
Stray animals are the result of abandoned pets, which led to overpopulation. A lot of stray animals that were placed in shelters are at risk of being euthanized if not adopted. Another issue is the use of stray animals by some countries for food consumption/market.
For instance, in Asia, China has the most stray dogs (27.4 million), followed by Russia (15 million), Japan (12 million), the Philippines (11.6), and India (10.2 million).
Let us remember about these animals that suffer every day wandering on the streets and reconsider our attitude towards them.
How to stop overpopulation?
Considering spaying/neutering your pet;
Think carefully before getting a pet - it is a lifetime responsibility;
If adopted, keep your pet for life;
Work, volunteer, and fight against puppy mills; and
Consider adopting a pet instead of buying them in the store.
World Rat Day
It's World Rat Day!
This day was created in 2002 and dedicated to these rodents. This day was created to improve the reputation of rats - a lot of people still associate them with dirt, diseases, aggression, but this only applies to wild rats, while domesticated rats are friendly and do not pose a risk to health. Rats are smart, loyal, easily trained, and capable of caring for themselves.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about rats and raise awareness about them by sharing on social media using the hashtag #WorldRatDay; and
Write a blog post about the legal protection of rodents.
It's World Aquatic Animal Day!
April 3rd is an annual day dedicated to aquatic animals!
Today, we wish to raise awareness for these magnificent creatures, the various threats they face, and how we, as human animals, impact them and their habitats. They are valuable to us not only as a society and to the environment but are also individuals with intrinsic value.
Aquatic animals may be covered in some animal protection acts in theory, but the legislation may not be enforced. Unfortunately, a lot of Asian countries do not protect aquatic animals by law.
We encourage you to get involved from home and participate by sharing your appreciation for aquatic animals and learning how you can protect them.
To learn more about World Aquatic Animal Day, what you can do, and how to join the events scheduled by the Center for Animal Law Studies, go to worldaquaticanimalday.org
It's Manatee Appreciation Day in the U.S.!
This day is celebrated on the last Wednesday of March and aims to raise awareness about these aquatic mammals. Due to their contact with humans and boating, manatees have become vulnerable species of animals.
There are just three species of manatees in the world:
Amazonian manatee inhabiting the Amazon River Basin in northern South America;
West Indian manatee (the Florida manatee and the Antillean manatee) living in the Caribbean and up the coast of Florida toward North Carolina; and
African manatee swimming in the West African coastline.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the manatees;
Join the event organized by Save the Manatee Club;
Share the information about manatees on social media using the hashtag #ManateeAppreciationDay;
Consider donations to the organizations that work on protecting manatees.
We are happy to announce that the Institute of Animal Law of Asia organizes the World Aquatic Animal Day Webinar in Kazakhstan as a celebration of World Aquatic Animal Day.
The panelists include:
Diego Plaza Casanova, Founder and Executive Director of CEDA Chile;
Madison Steffey, J.D. graduate of Lewis & Clark Law School;
Dr. Teale Phelps Bondaroff, Director of Research of OceansAsia;
Lakshmi Venkataraman, Campaign Manager of Humane Society International India; and
Gary Stokes, Director of Operations of OceansAsia.
The webinar will be held on Zoom, April 3rd, at 9:30 am (in Kazakhstan)*. FREE and OPEN to the public. Register here.
*The U.S. time is 8:30 pm (Pacific) and 11:30 pm (Eastern) on April 2nd.
We are delighted to present our second interview with Catherine Besch, the founder and Executive Director of Vietnam Animal Aid and Rescue - U.S.
Vietnam Animal Aid and Rescue - U.S. was the first animal organization from Asia that joined the Alliance for Animal Law of Asia. We are happy to share the organization's perspective, approach, and vision of animal law in Vietnam and globally.
World Aquatic Animal Day IALA Webinar
On April 2-3, the Institute of Animal Law of Asia organizes the webinar in Kazakhstan as a celebration of World Aquatic Animal Day!
World Aquatic Animal Day was first launched in 2020 by the Aquatic Animal Law Initiative (AALI), Center for Animal Law Studies, Lewis & Clark Law School. To see AALI's event this year, go to worldaquaticanimalday.org.
The IALA webinar is an independent event and we are joining the rest of the world to raise awareness about the importance of aquatic animals in our lives. This event is part of the project "Enhancing Legal Regulations for Aquatic Animals in Kazakhstan."
Please join our webinar with speakers from across the globe, including animal law experts, where they will introduce you to the necessity to protect aquatic animals and discuss how human activities impact aquatic life. More information to follow.
The webinar will be held on Zoom, April 3rd, at 9:30 am (in Kazakhstan)*. FREE and OPEN to the public. Register here.
*The time is 8:30 pm PT and 11:30 pm ET on April 2nd.
Call for Papers on Animal Law in Arabic Speaking Countries in Asia
The Institute of Animal Law of Asia is calling for papers on Animal Law in Arabic Speaking Countries of Asia!
The content may include animal protection, a general overview of animal law (the law of animal welfare, companion animals, farmed animals, wildlife, aquatic animals, animals in captivity, animals in entertainment, veganism, etc.);
The article shall be 2-3 pages, written in English with hyperlink citations, in Word format;
Include the bio of the writer (max. 5 sentences);
You can contact us via ialasia@outlook.com.
International Day of the Seal
It's International Day of the Seal!
This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance to protect and conserve seals from human-man threats. These marine mammals can be found throughout the world, in the Northern Pacific Ocean between Asia and North America, some species inhabit the coasts of South America, Antarctica, Africa, and Australia. Seals have been hunted for a long period of time to be used as meat, fur coats, and blubber, thus, many species have become endangered.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the seals and what threats humans can pose to them.
Watch a documentary about seals, e.g, “The Hidden Seals of Siberia” or “Playground of Seals.”
Consider donations to the organizations that work to conserve these mammals.
Dedicate a blogpost about the protection and conservation of seals and share it on social media using the hashtag #InternationalDayoftheSeal.
World Frog Day
It's World Frog Day!
This day was created in 2009 and is dedicated to raising awareness about the necessity to save and protect these animals from any threats that are posed to them. Some frogs have been recently threatened with extinction for different reasons, such as fungal infections and anthropogenic activities. Approximately 170 species of frogs have already gone extinct for the past decades.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the frogs and threats that they face.
Attend the events about the wild trafficking of frogs.
Dedicate a blogpost about the protection of frogs and share it on social media using the hashtag #WorldFrogDay.
It's World Sparrow Day!
This day was created to raise awareness about the importance of sparrows in the ecosystem. World Sparrow Day was started by the Nature Forever Society of India and the Eco-sys Action Foundation of France. The day is aimed to encourage people to take care of birds and protect them by all possible means.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the sparrows' general characteristics and habitat.
Organize a virtual event in your local area.
Share a blogpost on social media using the hashtag #WorldSparrowDay.
Read our eleventh series of news articles on the following topics:
Bird trafficking in Iraq;
Royal turtle laying eggs in captivity for the first time;
The closure of the largest dog meat auction house in South Korea;
Exemptions for animal ordinary cosmetics testing in China;
Chinese hotel with polar bears inside; and
Thailand's celebration of Elephant Day to attract tourists.
Read our tenth series of news articles on the following topics:
Efforts to save fishing cats;
Asia's largest livestock research center in India;
Massive oil spill in Israel covered sea turtles in tar;
1 out of 52 pilot whales survived stranding in Indonesia;
The first reappearance of a black-browed babbler in 172 years; and
Dubai cat cafe hopes to find forever homes for its rescues.
Happy International Women's Day!
This year, the theme for International Women’s Day is “Women in leadership: Achieving an equal future in a COVID-19 world,” which celebrates the tremendous efforts by women around the world in shaping a more equal future and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and highlights the gaps that remain.
Thanks to all amazing women who speak for animals and protect them through education, law, advocacy, and other ways!
In our February Newsletter, you will find 7 research articles, two volumes of our newsletter Asia Animal Law Bulletin, 5 species of animals in Animal Calendar, and a celebration of international and U.S. animal holidays. We have also launched the new 2021-2022 program aimed at farm animal welfare in mainland China and aquatic animal protection in Kazakhstan.
Please join us on April 3, 2021, as we celebrate World Aquatic Animal Day!
World Aquatic Animal Day is an annual event dedicated to aquatic animals, launched by the Aquatic Animal Law Initiative and the Animal Law Clinic at the Center for Animal Law Studies in 2020.
The 2021 theme: The Impact of Our Human Activities on Aquatic Animals
Aquatic animals play a critical role in our societies and ecosystems. They are important not only as a group but also as valuable and exciting individuals with intrinsic worth. There is an urgent need to give aquatic animals the proper consideration they deserve. Through law, policy, education, advocacy, and good stewardship of the earth, our efforts to raise awareness of the plight of aquatic animals must rise to meet the immense challenges they now face. We must also consider our interactions with aquatic animals, our treatment of them, and the often-devastating impacts we are having on them and their habitats.
The event will be held virtually and you can find more resources here.
Join the Navigating the Regulatory Waters for Aquatic Animals panel at the Public Interest Environmental Law Conference on March 6th, 2021, where speakers will talk about the present situation and issues of aquatic animal protection in certain countries and the future for aquatic animals!
The panelists are Professor Kathy Hessler, Amy P. Wilson, Diego F. Plaza, Bianka Atlas, and Lu Shegay.
The Public Interest Environmental Law Conference is the premier annual gathering for environmentalists worldwide and is distinguished as the oldest and largest of its kind. The Conference historically unites more than 3,000 activists, attorneys, students, scientists, and concerned citizens from over 50 countries around the globe to share their experience and expertise.
The event will be held on Zoom, free and open to the public.
Recently we sat with Diego Plaza Casanova, the founder and the Executive Director of Centro de Estudios de Derecho Animal (CEDA Chile), to introduce the organization and its work to our audience and the public.
CEDA Chile was the first animal organization that joined the Alliance for Animal Law of Asia, an international campaign that aims to collaborate with national, regional, and global organizations to enhance the protection of animals all over the world. We are happy to have the chance to get to know CEDA Chile's vision and mission.
It's World Wildlife Day!
The day was created in 2013 by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to raise awareness about wild animals and plants around the world. The day is considered an international day of adoption of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), which plays a major role in the animal world. The holiday was proposed by Thailand to celebrate the world's wild flora and fauna.
The theme of the holiday for 2021 is "Forests and Livelihoods: Sustaining People and Planet" to highlight the importance of forests and their inhabitants, ecosystems, and their sustainable use in our lives.
Watch WWD Film Showcase and Youth Art Contest and share it on social media.
Raise awareness about forests and forest-dwelling wild animals by sharing it on your pages. Make sure to use the hashtag #WorldWildlifeDay, #ForestPeoplePlanet #WWD2021.
Launch a campaign or sign a petition to reduce human-made threats to forests and their inhabitants.
Speak up and reach out to authorities if you have information about illegal activities, such as fishing, wildlife trafficking, etc.
Volunteer with and donate to organizations that work on the conservation of forests, wild animals and plants.
Every voice matters. Help save our planet!
National Horse Protection Day
It's National Horse Protection Day in the U.S!
The day was created to raise awareness about these magnificent animals that symbolize freedom. This day also aims to help horses find their forever homes.
Horses are neglected and abandoned most of the time by owners and horse breeders or dealers. Horse meat is consumed in different parts of the world and some cultures consider it a delicacy. They are also used for sports, but their well-being and welfare are not taken into account, thus, they are maltreated, injured, abused.
How to celebrate?
Try visiting horse sanctuaries to bond with these majestic animals.
If you become a witness of a neglected or abandoned horse, report the animal welfare officer.
Get involved in improving legislation on livestock protection in your country.
Consider donations or other ways to support non-profit organizations focusing on rescuing horses.
Share your post on social media using the hashtag #NationalHorseProtectionDay
International Polar Bear Day
It's International Polar Bear Day!
This day was created by Polar Bears International to raise awareness about the global warming impact and reduced sea ice on the population of these marine mammals.
Polar bears are the largest living carnivores on Earth and their cubs are born blind and mostly as twins. It is difficult to estimate the total population of polar bears because of their remote home ranges and low population densities.
In 2015, the IUCN reported that the global population of polar bears was between 22 000 - 31 000 individuals. WWF reported that polar bears are important for Arctic ecosystem health and at-risk polar bears are a sign of the issues of the Arctic marine ecosystem.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the polar bears' habitat and how natural factors and human activities impact their population.
Consider donations to organizations that work to conserve moms and cubs.
Dedicate a blog post to the polar bears' protection.
Share your post on social media using the hashtag #InternationalPolarBearDay.
Read our ninth series of news articles on the following topics:
The orangutan was rescued in Indonesia;
"WeQare" initiative by Qatar Airways Cargo;
South Korea gives free COVID-19 tests to pets;
COVID-19 origin has to continue after WHO report;
Wild pigs in Southeast Asia confront deadly African fever; and
White tiger cubs likely died from COVID-19 in Pakistan.
Guest Lecture for the Animal Law Course
The first guest lecture within the Project "Enhancing Legal Regulations of Aquatic Animals in Kazakhstan" has been successfully presented at the KIMEP School of Law on February 24th, 2021!
Lu was invited to speak for the Animal Law class at KIMEP University, the only university in the Commonwealth of Independent States that offers an animal law course. She spoke about aquariums and the consequences of keeping marine mammals in captivity. Students were also given a lobbying task within the group to advocate for their movement's interests.
The recording is here on YouTube.
World Spay Day
It's World Spay Day!
This day was created in 1995 by the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association to raise awareness about the necessity to spay/neuter.
Why spaying/neutering is important?
It saves a lot of animals' lives - millions of cats and dogs are euthanized because they do not find homes.
It reduces cases of the common types of cat and dog cancers.
It prevents the overpopulation of dogs and cats.
It makes more room in animal shelters.
We are pleased to announce the cooperation between the KIMEP School of Law and the Institute of Animal Law of Asia by launching a non-mandatory, free, and open to the public animal law course where anyone will have an opportunity to learn more about the protection of animals.
World Whale Day
It's World Whale Day!
This day was created in 1980 to celebrate these giants of the ocean and to raise awareness about these extremely intelligent marine mammals.
The population of some species of whales, such as the Cook Inlet Beluga, North Atlantic Right Whale, and Southern Resident Killer Whale have been recognized as Species in the Spotlight due to their endangered status.
How to celebrate?
Support organizations that work on the conservation and protection of whales.
Learn more about these marine mammals and share on social media using the hashtag #WorldWhaleDay.
Dedicate a blog post or an article to whales.
World Pangolin Day
It's World Pangolin Day!
Today is the tenth annual celebration of World Pangolin Day! This day is another opportunity to raise awareness about these animals that are often poached and trafficked in the wildlife trade.
Pangolins are unique mammals, and there are eight species of pangolins on Earth. Their population is declining due to the illegal trade for meat and traditional Chinese medicine. Four species of pangolins inhabit Asia: Indian Pangolin, Philippine pangolin, Sunda Pangolin, and Chinese Pangolin. The remaining four species inhabit African countries.
How to celebrate?
Support organizations that work on the conservation of these animals.
Learn more about these mammals and share on social media using the hashtag #WorldPangolinDay.
Dedicate a blog post or an article to pangolins.
Inform local authorities if you become the witness of the illegal trade of pangolins.
Request your law enforcement to strengthen the regulations with regard to the protection of pangolins.
In our January Newsletter, you will find 8 research articles, two volumes of our newsletter Asia Animal Law Bulletin, 8 species of animals in Animal Calendar, and a celebration of international and U.S. animal holidays. We have also had one organization joined the Alliance for Animal Law of Asia, an international campaign aimed at cooperating with national, regional, and international organizations.
Lunar New Year
Happy Lunar New Year 2021!
2021, according to the Chinese zodiac, is the year of the Ox. Today we say goodbye to the year of the Rat and greet the year of the Metal Ox.
The Metal Ox is represented as diligent, strong, and determined. Oxen are honest, ambitious, and dedicated to their work.
May this year be healthy and bring new hopes! 祝您牛年吉祥!
We are pleased to announce that our Managing Director, Lu Shegay, and our Executive Director, Zihao Yu, have been selected as CALS Ambassadors for 2021-2022!
Both Lu and Zihao will be working on educating individuals on the importance of animal law in their home countries.
Lu will be working on developing legal protection for aquatic animals in Kazakhstan and Zihao's project is focused on welfare for farmed animals in mainland China.
Read our eighth series of news articles on the following topics:
Rare sighting of Siamese crocodile in Thailand;
The first lion cub born via artificial insemination;
30 slow lorises were rescued in Indonesia;
Asia's first dairy-free ice cream launched in Hong Kong;
New hope to save the Philippine pangolin; and
Animal traps in Hong Kong led to the police investigation.
Announcement of the New IALA Logo
In 2021, the Institute of Animal Law of Asia (IALA) introduces its new logo. Our logo represents certain categories of animals of Asia embracing wild animals, aquatic animals, companion animals, and farmed animals, including, but not limited to all of the above-mentioned categories used in exploitation/entertainment.
We look forward to making more steps towards changing the world for animals and effectively advocating for them!
Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest updates of the Institute of Animal Law of Asia (IALA)!
National Golden Retriever Day
It's National Golden Retriever Day in the U.S!
This day was created by Kristen Shroyer in 2012 and the day was chosen as the birthday of the owner's golden retriever, Quincey. The day is dedicated to recognizing these extremely smart and calm-tempered dogs on February 3rd every year. Golden retrievers are the fourth smartest dogs and considered the best therapy dogs.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about golden retrievers and share information on social media using the hashtag #NationalGoldenRetrieverDay.
Consider donations and support golden retriever organizations.
Adopt a dog from the shelter.
International Zebra Day
It's International Zebra Day!
This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance to conserve zebras through national, regional, and global efforts.
Despite some of the species' population growth, the day was created to draw the public's attention to the necessity to protect zebras. The biggest threats include habitat loss due to farming, ranching, droughts, diseases, competition for water with livestock, as well as poaching.
Currently, there are three extant species: the Grevy's zebra, the mountain zebra, and the plains zebra - all native to sub-Saharan Africa. According to the IUCN Red List, they are listed as Endangered, Vulnerable, and Least Concern respectively.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about the species of zebra, their characteristics, and features;
Share the information about the possible threats to zebras and conservation efforts;
Consider donations to conservation organizations; and
Refer to our partners from Africa: Animal Law Reform Africa and LAPA Africa to seek assistance and consultation in legal issues with regard to animals.
Approximately 100 million sharks are killed every year for various purposes, while tens of millions of them are caught for food consumption. Join Lu Shegay on the webinar where she will discuss how certain countries treat sharks within their legal frameworks and analyze the international instruments that can help improve the protection of sharks.
Change a Pet's Life Day
It's Change a Pet's Life Day in the U.S!
This day was created to raise awareness nationwide about the importance for homeless animals to find loving, caring, and forever homes.
How to celebrate?
Adoption is the best way to impact an animal's life. Consider adoption or foster.
Donate to your local animal shelter or sponsor an animal in the shelter.
Volunteer with the animal shelter. Offer your help in caring for animals.
Share adoptable pets on social media to spread the word. Use the hashtag #ChangeAPetsLifeDay.
Raise awareness about animal shelters by telling your friends, family members, or sharing on social media pages.
If you have a pet, share your pet story.
Read our seventh series of news articles on the following topics:
American Airlines is banning emotional-support animals;
A hope for extremely rare species of a turtle;
A trapped young minke whale is killed in Japan;
19 people will be charged for feeding wild boars in Singapore;
The world's oldest animal paintings in Indonesia; and
The launch of Al Islami Foods' first vegan burger in UAE.
Penguin Awareness Day in the U.S.
It's Penguin Awareness Day!
Penguin Awareness Day is celebrated annually on January 20th in the United States to draw the public's attention to the effect of climate change and other activities on the population of penguins.
Penguins are a group of aquatic flightless birds inhabiting the Southern Hemisphere, with one species living in the north of the Equator. According to the IUCN Red List data, the conservation status of penguins ranges from Least Concern to Endangered.
How to celebrate?
Spread the educational materials on who penguins are, how they are threatened, and how they are legally protected. Use the hashtag #PenguinAwarenessDay to share or learn more about these animals.
Consider donations to non-profit organizations focusing on the conservation of penguins. Some organizations may have the option of "adopting" a penguin that is part of the donation.
If you have children, help them learn more about the penguins through documentaries, videos, and books.
Institute of Animal Law of Asia (IALA) was founded in September 2020 and its team has been working hard to provide the most recent updates on animal protection over the continent of Asia and the world. IALA has prepared its 2020 yearly report, which demonstrates what it has done over 2020.
Read our sixth series of news articles on the following topics:
Bird flu in Japan;
New life of smuggled orangutans in Indonesia;
New population of blue whales in the Western Indian Ocean;
Lucky, the Kazakhstani rescued dog's new life in the USA;
Raising alarms of exotic animals cafes in Asia; and
The effect of the pandemic on Asia's captive elephants.
National Bird Day in the U.S!
It's National Bird Day in the U.S!
National Bird Day is celebrated annually on January 5 to raise awareness about the importance to provide protection and conservation for the birds.
The day was first celebrated in 2002 to draw the public's attention to the fact that birds are threatened by natural factors and human activities.
“Some birds are not meant to be caged, that's all. Their feathers are too bright, their songs too sweet and wild. So you let them go, or when you open the cage to feed them they somehow fly out past you. And the part of you that knows it was wrong to imprison them in the first place rejoices, but still, the place where you live is that much more drab and empty for their departure.” ― Stephen King
Happy New Year 2021!
2020 has certainly been a difficult year for everybody and is associated with the coronavirus outbreak.
We hope that 2021 will bring us joy and peace in the background of all events that happened in the past year. We also hope that the New Year will bring good news with regard to enhancing animal welfare regulations in every country.
Most importantly, we want to thank each and everyone who supported us throughout the year and has been active in following our activities, as well as those who contributed and are still contributing to the work we do for animals!
Read our fifth series of news articles on the following topics:
The first male elephant is born in Tokyo's zoo;
Singapore, the first country in the world approving lab-grown meat;
A woman shares a home with 1,300 dogs in China;
Rescue of an orangutan in West Borneo;
Massive death of camels in UAE; and
Sickly dancing bears move to a sanctuary in Jordan.
International Monkey Day
It's International Monkey Day!
The holiday was created by artists Casey Sorrow and Eric Millikin in 2000. Since then, the holiday has been widely celebrated in many countries across the globe.
Today is the day to remember these animals and to promote the necessity to provide them with better legal protection.
How to celebrate?
Learn more about these extremely intelligent species who have a lot in common with humans.
Consider a donation to conservation funds that aim to protect monkeys.
Share a post on social media with the hashtag #InternationalMonkeyDay or #WorldMonkeyDay.
It's International Animal Rights Day!
This day is dedicated to reminding everybody that animals are sentient beings, are capable of feeling pain and suffering, and are victims of everyday crimes.
Today is the day to highlight the necessity of granting basic legal rights to animals and to recognize the Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare (UDAW).
International Day of Veterinary Medicine
It’s International Day of Veterinary Medicine!
This day is celebrated annually across the globe to remind everyone of these brave people who work hard to keep animals safe and healthy.
Veterinarians are crucial people in the animal world. They do not only treat diseased and injured animals but also assist the police at the stage of an investigation about abused and neglected animals.
How to celebrate?
If you have a pet, show your veterinarian some extra love by supplying them with a card, candies, or fruits.
Do some background research about the work of veterinarians and learn more about what they do to protect animals.
Express your gratitude by sharing your tribute on social media with pictures and kind words.
Members of the Institute of Animal Law of Asia (IALA) have recently been interviewed by the Center for Animal Law Studies (CALS) to share about the expansion of their work on the development of animal law in Asian countries.
The interview covers the status of IALA, its referred countries, the most pressing issues in the members' home countries, and strategic plans to change the landscape of the animal law field in Asia.
Read our fourth series of news articles on the following topics:
Constructions' effect on wild buffaloes' habitat in Hong Kong;
Weixin county reconsiders the dog walking directives;
Rocky, the mutt, finds a new home;
Parrots in plastic bottles were found in Indonesia;
World's loneliest elephant is free; and
Ban on elephant rides in Dak Lak, Vietnam.
It's Wildlife Conservation Day!
Thousands of species of wild animals are have always been threatened by both natural factors and human activities. Wildlife crime and illegal wildlife trade are a widespread issue in almost every country around the world.
On this day, we want to remind of one of the biggest problems associated with animal law. The day was initiated in support of the Endangered Species Act and to stop wildlife crimes.
It's International Cheetah Day!
Cheetahs are wild cats native to Africa and Asia and are threatened by three main factors: human activities, habitat loss, and illegal pet trade.
Today we want to highlight the importance to conserve cheetahs and to remind of how important they are to the environment and ecosystem.
Learn more about this species and how you can help and contribute to the conservation of cheetahs.
National Mutt Day in the U.S
It’s National Mutt Day in the U.S!
A mutt, otherwise called a mixed-breed dog, is a dog not belonging to any officially recognized breed and is not the result of intentional breeding. Mutts do not lose their natural value and can equally be well-trained, smart, and caring, although they are considered to be less commercially valuable than intentionally bred dogs.
National Mutt Day reminds us to save, think, embrace, and care for mixed breed dogs. Millions of loving and healthy dogs in animal shelters are waiting to find them forever homes.
International Jaguar Day
It’s International Jaguar Day! This day is annually celebrated to highlight the importance of jaguars and the conservation efforts of these wild cats and to raise awareness about the threats that they face. International Jaguar Day also aims to draw the public’s attention to the necessity to conserve jaguars and their habitats.
Jaguars are the third-largest species in the world and range across forested and open terrains, as well as tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, swamps, and wooded areas. The population of jaguars is rapidly declining due to poaching and habitat and prey loss. Currently, the jaguar is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List and on Appendix I of the CITES. Despite being listed under Appendix I in the CITES, where international trade of jaguars and their body parts is prohibited, illegal trade and hunting still occur, along with trophy hunting inside those countries where jaguars are not protected.
Happy Friendsgiving Day!
White House has a tradition of pardoning a turkey every year on Thanksgiving Day, which was first started by President Abraham Lincoln's clemency to a turkey in the 1860s.
Thanksgiving Day is a perfect day to remember to express gratitude to your family, friends, animals, and your loved ones. Give them a hug today!
"It is a fundamental duty for us to be compassionate towards all living creatures." - Constitution of India
Read our third series of news articles on the following topics:
Ban of the dog meat trade in Cambodia;
Rescue of 2 bears from bear bile farming in Phu Tho and 6 bears in Binh Duong;
A newly discovered primate in Myanmar;
Listing Caspian Seal in the Red Book of Kazakhstan; and
Animal Advocacy Conference Asia 2020.
World Kindness Day
November 13 is World Kindness Day, a global day that promotes the importance of being kind to each other, to yourself. IALA celebrates this holiday to highlight and promote the important attitude of being kind towards each other, the environment, animals, and the world. Our purpose is to help everyone understand that compassion for animals is what binds human beings and animals altogether.
National Bison Day in the U.S
On the first Saturday of November, Americans honor one of the most majestic animals in the country. Bison, also known as the American buffalo, inhabited the lands of North America and became a historical symbol of the United States. In 2017, there were counted approximately 500 000 in the U.S.
How to observe National Bison Day?
Read about the bison;
Visit an American museum featuring the history of the bison;
Drive through a National Park to see living bison in their natural habitats;
Learn the history of their population and their role in American culture.
Learn more about the species of Asian bison.
Animal Rescue Appreciation Week in the U.S.
The first full week of November is dedicated to Animal Rescue Appreciation Week in the U.S.!
There are about 70 million stray animals in the United States and up to 8 million of them end up in shelters. The dog population in China follows the United States and Brazil with a total of approximately 27 million. India is the country that has the most stray dogs (25 million), Vietnam counts a total of 7.2 million dogs, and Cambodia has around 5 million dogs. In Indonesia, the overpopulation of animals causes an increase in the number of dogs to 500 000 in Bali only.
Animals are subjected to abuse and neglect all over the globe and need special treatment from veterinarians and animal rescue entities staff. Due to the coronavirus outbreak, the donations have been dropped, and animal rescue entities, as never, need our support and consideration because the vast majority of them maintain animals on donations and fees. Show your appreciation to animal rescue organizations.
World Vegan Day
November 1 is the World Vegan Day!
The event was first established by Louise Wallis in 1994 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the organization and the coining of the terms "vegan" and "veganism."
Animals are living beings and individuals deserving the strongest protection under the law and consideration from the public. Being vegan will save a dozen animals' lives, the environment, nature, and is beneficial for health.
Asia has the fastest growing economic region, and agriculture is very intensive than on any other continent given the widespread practice of farming both land and aquatic animals.
Read our second series of news articles on the following topics:
Israel is on its development to ban the fur trade;
China bans captive breeding of 45 wild animals by the end of 2020;
China's first biosafety law is passed in response to the COVID-19;
A man is arrested for allegedly abusing stray cats in Thailand;
A roaring comeback of wild Persian leopards in Russia’s Mountains; and
A cruel killing of a wolf in Kazakhstan.
Happy #BatAppreciationMonth!
It's Bat Appreciation Month! October is dedicated to these wild and exotic species of animals.
Bats, like many other species of animals, have been vulnerable to hunting due to the popularity of bat meat and medical purposes. COVID-19 has raised a lot of concerns and attention from the public due to the fear of bat meat consumption, despite the uncertainty of the origin of the virus.
Visit this page to learn more about bats in Asia.
National Mule Day
October 26th is the #NationalMuleDay in the United States. A mule is the offspring of a female horse and a male donkey. “Mule Day” has been dedicated to the livestock shows and mule market, where people can see a mule-driving contest, a horse show, square dances, etc, which have a negative impact on the mules’ mental and physical health.
Asia is the second world’s largest region with a population of mules (4 million) following the continents of the Americas (6.5 million). In the 2017 ranking, mainland China has been recognized as the second top mule producing country (1.9 million) following Mexico (3.2 million).
IALA tributes this day to raise awareness about the exploitation of mules. Share this post to improve the welfare of this species!
Institute of Animal Law of Asia (IALA) successfully participated in the celebration of World Migratory Bird Day!
Institute of Animal Law of Asia (IALA) actively engaged in the event highlighting the importance to protect migratory birds, provided a discussion on the major threats of migratory birds, legal issues, and protection under the law. Please visit our event page here.
Read our first series of news articles on the following topics:
The new report on illegal wildlife trade in Southeast Asia and China;
Suspected animal killers in Hong Kong will not be prosecuted;
The celebration of World Rhino Day and the birth of two Javan rhinos in Indonesia;
The new investigation of the dog meat market in South Korea; and
The mass death of aquatic animals at the Kamchatka Peninsula.