Members of the Polish Parliament are advocating for a ban on importing hunting trophies from endangered species. This push aligns with the opening of the “Still Life. #NotInMyWorld” photographic exhibition by Britta Jaschinski at the Polish Parliament. The exhibition, organized by Humane Society International (HSI) in Poland and the Parliamentary Group for the Protection of Animal Rights, aims to draw attention to the harsh realities of trophy hunting.
Trophy hunting is a lucrative industry where hunters often pay substantial amounts for the chance to hunt endangered species such as lions, elephants, and rhinos. This practice not only increases the risk of extinction for these animals but also hampers global conservation efforts.
The removal of key species through trophy hunting can disrupt ecosystems, causing imbalances that affect both wildlife and plant life. These disturbances can have long-lasting negative impacts on biodiversity and ecological health.
Britta Jaschinski’s photographs vividly capture the grim reality of trophy hunting, showcasing images of animal bodies, skins, paws, and heads. Her work draws a stark parallel between the objectification of endangered animals and the traditional concept of “still life,” which often includes inanimate objects like hunting trophies. This visual narrative emphasizes the ethical and environmental repercussions of trophy hunting.
“Hunting trophies are often seen as status symbols, but they reflect an outdated and exploitative view of nature,” said Iga Głażewska, Poland country director for HSI/Europe. “This exhibition aims to challenge that perception and underscore the severe impact of trophy hunting on animals, biodiversity, and ecosystems.”
Głażewska continued, “We believe Poland should follow the example of other European nations and implement a ban on the import of trophies from endangered species. In light of the climate and biodiversity crises, it is crucial to end practices that threaten further extinctions.”
Following the exhibition opening, which included speeches by Britta Jaschinski, Professor Rafał Kowalczyk, and MP Katarzyna Piekarska, the Parliamentary Group for the Protection of Animal Rights convened to discuss the need for stricter regulations on trophy hunting.
Between 2013 and 2022, the European Union imported hunting trophies from over 27,000 animals listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). During this period, Poland imported nearly 1,400 of these trophies, including those from brown bears, African lions, black bears, cheetahs, leopards, and rhinos.
The #NotInMyWorld campaign by HSI seeks to drive global policy changes regarding trophy hunting. The campaign has achieved notable success, with Belgium banning the import of trophies from various endangered species in January 2024 and Finland implementing a similar ban in December 2022. Legislation is also being considered in France, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Spain.
The “Still Life. #NotInMyWorld” exhibition highlights the cruelty of trophy hunting and advocates for legislative changes in Poland. Implementing a ban on trophy imports would align Poland with other countries committed to protecting endangered species and supporting global conservation efforts.