How seriously should we see the fatal shooting of a baboon? Should it be criminalized? It is likely that the case — centered around an animal that last month escaped from the Leofoo Village Theme Park — will remain unsettled even after the investigation has been completed.
The shot that killed the innocent baboon also delivered a grievous injury to Taiwan’s reputation as a country proud of its animal rights protections.
Taiwanese have been so proud of their “no kill” policy on shelter animals, particularly stray dogs, believing that they are far ahead of other countries when it comes to the issue of animal protection.
However, the death of the escaped baboon shows that it has been self-conceit. A bullet has awakened everyone. Taiwan’s animal protection policy, as it turns out, only cares for stray dogs and is blind to other animals. Is Taiwan really that progressive?
It seems that compassion and respect for animals are selective.
When the entire world is engaging with the WHO’s integrated, unifying concept of “one health,” seeking to balance the health of people, animals and ecosystems, is Taiwan keeping in step? More often than not, human beings tend to consider themselves — ignorantly and arrogantly — as the master of all species, but a tiny virus turned the world upside down over the past three years.
When nature strikes back, it will be impossible for humankind to live in peace.
To establish true “one health,” people must respect all lives and cherish the ecosystem.
They should monitor their own behavior when interacting with animals and the environment.
“One health” is not merely a concept. It requires action to make it work. This concept can be practiced in reality and its influence can reach every corner of the world. People would witness and experience “one health” if they abandon ignorance and complacency. To create a truly beautiful, harmonious Formosa, Taiwanese must live alongside animals and ecosystems on an equal footing.
Johnson Chiang is a former president of the World Veterinary Association.
Translated by Emma Liu
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