European Union proposal to limit seal trade

The proposal came on the heels of growing political opposition and a huge public outcry about the ongoing commercial slaughter of young seals. On July 1, large numbers of citizens from across Europe gathered in Brussels, outside the offices of the European Commission, to demonstrate in support of an EU-wide ban on seal products. IFAW, the Humane Society International and other groups expressed concern about potential loopholes that would allow trade to continue. "Only a complete ban can prevent (seal) products from these large-scale and inherently cruel hunts from entering European markets," said Robbie Marsland, Director of IFAW-UK.

October 2008