Omar Bennett
Animal diplomacy is a longstanding tradition in international relations, where countries exchange animals as gifts to foster goodwill and strengthen bilateral ties. This practice, often associated with soft power, has been used by governments since ancient times to project influence and enhance their global standing. Animals such as lions, elephants, giraffes, and pandas have been employed as symbols of power, strength, and beauty, with the latter becoming synonymous with China's diplomatic efforts. While animal welfare concerns have reduced the prevalence of this tradition, some nations continue to utilise animal diplomacy, including Australia with its koala diplomacy and Malaysia with its orangutan diplomacy.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | The use of living animals by governments in their international relations |
| History | Attested since antiquity, with early examples traced back to the Chinese Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) |
| Forms | Exotic animals (e.g., lions, elephants, giraffes) or domestic animals (e.g., horses, dogs, birds of prey) |
| Function | A form of soft power, integrated into public diplomacy strategies |
| Examples | Panda diplomacy (China), Koala diplomacy (Australia), Orangutan diplomacy (Malaysia), Dog diplomacy (Russia) |
| Symbolism | Animals can symbolise power (lions, bears), strength (elephants, horses), or beauty (exotic birds) |
| Cultural Significance | Animals possess cultural significance or are indigenous to the gifting country, making them influential instruments for diplomacy |
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What You'll Learn
Animal diplomacy as a form of soft power
Animal diplomacy refers to the use of animals as gifts between nations to symbolise friendship, peace, and goodwill. This practice has been observed since ancient times, with archaeological evidence of large dogs being exchanged as gifts in the Iron Age. During the Middle Ages and Renaissance, European kings frequently gifted lions and tigers to showcase their authority over nature.
In the 21st century, animal diplomacy has evolved into a form of soft power, where nations strategically employ charismatic wildlife to enhance their global influence and project a positive image. China's "panda diplomacy" is a well-known example, with a history dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). China presents pandas to other nations as a symbol of peace and friendship, and this practice has continued into the 21st century, with China loaning pandas to zoos in San Diego and Madrid.
Australia has also effectively utilised animal diplomacy with its "koala diplomacy," popularised by images of world leaders hugging koalas during the G20 Summit in Brisbane in 2014. This initiative promotes Australian culture and wildlife conservation, enhancing Australia's global image. Similarly, Malaysia, facing criticism for deforestation caused by palm oil plantations, has introduced "orangutan diplomacy" to address environmental concerns and showcase its commitment to wildlife protection.
Animal diplomacy can also involve collaborative efforts to protect endangered species or preserve habitats, fostering trust and cooperation between nations. For instance, Russia and China have worked together to protect the Siberian tiger, and Russia's gift of a Siberian kitten to Finland highlighted the Finnish President's love for cats. Animal adoptions, wildlife exhibitions, and conservation partnerships can engage citizens domestically and internationally, fostering positive diplomatic relations.
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The history of animal diplomacy
Animal diplomacy has been used by governments in their international relations since antiquity. The practice traditionally involved the exchange of exotic or domestic animals as gifts between heads of state, with early examples dating back to the Chinese Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) when pandas were given to foreign rulers. Animals such as lions, elephants, giraffes, horses, dogs, and birds of prey were often used as symbols of power, strength, or beauty, and served to underline the meaning of official visits and diplomatic relations.
During the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods, European kings frequently exchanged animals such as lions and tigers to demonstrate their authority over nature. In the 14th and 15th centuries, Egyptian rulers sent giraffes as gifts to far-off places like Samarkand and England. Cleopatra is said to have given a giraffe to Julius Caesar, which the Romans called a "cameleopard" due to its unusual appearance.
The practice of animal diplomacy continued into the modern era, with China's panda diplomacy being one of the most famous examples. In the 1950s, the communist regime sent two pandas to the Moscow Zoo as a symbol of good relations between China and the USSR. In 1972, US President Richard Nixon received two giant pandas after his visit to Beijing, and in 1982, the Chinese government began renting out giant pandas due to their scarcity. Other instances of animal diplomacy include Australia's koala diplomacy, Malaysia's orangutan diplomacy, and Russia's Siberian kitten diplomacy.
While animal diplomacy has been a longstanding tradition, the welfare of the animals has become an increasing concern. Today, animals used in diplomacy are typically placed in official, state zoos, and the care and treatment of these animals can significantly impact the image of royals and politicians.
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Animal welfare and zoos
Animal diplomacy has been a practice since ancient times, with animals being used as gifts between heads of state. In modern times, the issue of animal welfare has come to the forefront, impacting the practice of animal diplomacy. This is especially true in the case of zoos, which have been criticised for their treatment of animals.
Zoos have long been a part of the animal diplomacy landscape, with gifted animals often being housed in official, state zoos. While zoos have traditionally been associated with the display and conservation of animals, their treatment of animals has come under increasing scrutiny. In the past, zoos often kept animals in small cages, with little regard for their welfare or natural habitats. This has led to criticism and calls for improved animal welfare standards and regulations.
In response to these concerns, several organisations have emerged to set standards and guidelines for animal care in zoos. One such organisation is the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), which creates guidelines for optimal wild animal care in zoos and aquariums. However, WAZA is not a regulatory body and zoos are not required to follow its guidelines. This is a similar case with the American Zoo and Aquarium Association (AZA), which sets voluntary standards and accredits organisations that meet certain credentials.
Despite the presence of these organisations, animal mistreatment in zoos remains a concern. This is partly due to the low bar set by regulatory standards, such as the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) in the United States, which has been criticised for its sub-par protection of animals. The AWA, for example, does not restrict the display or private ownership of captive wild animals and sets low requirements for housing, food, and sanitation. In addition, the enforcement of these standards is often inadequate, with inspections being infrequent and conducted by inadequately trained inspectors.
To address these issues, some zoos have taken steps to improve animal welfare. This includes creating natural-looking habitats for animals and participating in conservation and education efforts. The Animal Welfare Committee, for example, works with AZA-accredited zoos to promote excellent welfare for animals by assisting in identifying and applying best practices in animal welfare science. By improving the physical, mental, and emotional states of animals in their care, zoos can ensure that they are comfortable, healthy, and happy.
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Animal diplomacy in contemporary times
Animal diplomacy has been used by governments in their international relations since ancient times. Traditionally, this involved the exchange of exotic or domestic animals as gifts between heads of state. In contemporary times, animal diplomacy has evolved into a form of soft power, with some states integrating it into their public diplomacy strategies.
One of the most famous examples of animal diplomacy in recent times is China's "panda diplomacy". China has a long history of gifting pandas to foreign rulers, dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). In modern times, China has continued this tradition, sending pandas to zoos in other countries as a gesture of goodwill and to signal a broader conservation effort. In 2023, there were signs of a revival of China's panda diplomacy, with President Xi Jinping hinting at the possibility of resuming panda exchanges with the United States.
Another example of animal diplomacy in contemporary times is Australia's "koala diplomacy". During the G20 Summit in Brisbane in 2014, Australia showcased its commitment to conservation and sustainability by including koalas in the summit proceedings. Images of world leaders holding koalas made headlines and projected Australia's warm welcome to its guests. Australia's Foreign Minister, Julie Bishop, has also emphasised the importance of "koala cuddling" as a soft power strategy to build stronger international relations.
Malaysia, the world's second-largest palm oil producer, has also attempted to improve its environmental image through "orangutan diplomacy". By gifting orangutans to countries that purchase their palm oil, Malaysia aims to address concerns about the environmental impact of palm oil production, which often destroys orangutan habitats.
While animal diplomacy has been used effectively in contemporary times, there are also challenges and concerns. One key consideration is animal welfare, with some countries moving towards renting or loaning animals instead of gifting them. Additionally, private zoos are generally not well-received in the Western sphere of international relations, and animals used in diplomacy are typically housed in official, state zoos.
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How animal diplomacy strengthens bilateral relations
Animal diplomacy has been used by governments in their international relations since ancient times. It involves the exchange of animals as gifts between heads of state and has been perceived as a form of soft power. Animal diplomacy strengthens bilateral relations in several ways:
Firstly, animals are powerful symbols that convey different meanings and represent cultural significance. For instance, lions and bears symbolise power, elephants and horses symbolise strength, and exotic birds represent beauty. These animals are often chosen as diplomatic gifts to emphasise the importance of official visits and to demonstrate authority over nature. They serve as a hobby for rich and powerful rulers, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared interests.
Secondly, animal diplomacy fosters goodwill and friendship between nations. The giving of animals as gifts is an ancient tradition that strengthens relationships by showing a willingness to cooperate and build alliances. For example, China's famous panda diplomacy symbolises peace and friendship, with a long history dating back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD). Similarly, Australia's koala diplomacy has been used to promote Australian culture and showcase their commitment to conservation and sustainability.
Thirdly, animal diplomacy can be a tool for environmental diplomacy. Nations can collaborate to protect endangered species and preserve habitats, building trust and facilitating cooperation. For instance, Malaysia's orangutan diplomacy aims to address concerns about the environmental impact of palm oil production by conserving orangutan habitats. This approach not only enhances Malaysia's environmental image but also creates a shared goal with recipient countries, strengthening bilateral relations.
Additionally, animal diplomacy can lead to public engagement and domestic support. Events such as animal adoptions, wildlife exhibitions, and conservation partnerships can engage citizens domestically and internationally. For example, during the G20 Summit in Australia, images of world leaders holding koalas and interacting with Australian wildlife dominated the media, projecting a positive image of the host nation and its commitment to conservation.
Lastly, animal diplomacy can be an effective tool for public diplomacy. By leveraging the appeal of charismatic wildlife, countries can enhance their global influence and soft power. For instance, Russia's gift of a Siberian kitten to Finland's cat-loving president demonstrated a thoughtful gesture that likely strengthened bilateral relations between the two nations. Animal diplomacy allows nations to showcase their unique wildlife and build cultural connections with other countries.
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Frequently asked questions
Animal diplomacy is the use of animals by governments in their international relations. This has traditionally taken the form of exotic or domestic animals offered as gifts between heads of state.
Some examples of animal diplomacy include China's panda diplomacy, Malaysia's orangutan diplomacy, and Australia's koala diplomacy.
Animal diplomacy can be used to project soft power and enhance global influence by leveraging the appeal of charismatic wildlife. For example, Australia's koala diplomacy initiative promotes Australian culture and wildlife conservation.
Animal diplomacy is believed to have originated in China during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) when they started giving pandas to foreign rulers as a diplomatic gesture.
Animal diplomacy has facilitated collaborative efforts to protect endangered species and preserve habitats, building trust and cooperation between nations. For example, an agreement between Russia and China to protect the endangered Siberian tiger.
