Stop Japan's War on Bears

Please contact the Prime Minister via the form. https://www.kantei.go.jp/foreign/forms/comment_ssl.html

Encountering moon bears in urban spaces should not be a death sentence for these magnificent creatures. As someone concerned about the recent measures being adopted in Japan, I implore our community leaders to seek humane solutions for coexistence with moon bears, rather than resorting to lethal force. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/oct/27/bear-attack-survival-tips-released-in-japan-as-encounters-surge

The average citizen does not agree with the government policy of hiring sport Hunters to shoot bears after a negative interaction with humans or farmed animals. https://share.google/7gUPwtwc0kVwnDXg7

There is an organization, the Japanese Bear and Forest Society, that provides humane non lethal solutions to human bear negative interactions, including fatalities. https://kumamori-en.org/?page_id=28

Japan has been grappling with the presence of moon bears in urban areas, with negative encounters unfortunately leading to human fatalities. However, the real issue stem from attractants such as improper garbage disposal, urban sprawl, and a general lack of understanding regarding how to peacefully coexist with large wildlife like moon bears.

This municipality has success because of a partnership with a pro bear organization.  https://www.wildlife-picchio.com/conservation/

Instead of addressing these root causes, Japan is taking a more violent approach by removing protections for these animals, allowing hunters to shoot them. Incredibly, with just one city council meeting, a municipality can hire hunters to exterminate urban bears. This approach is not only dangerous and traumatic for humans and wildlife alike but fundamentally flawed as it does not eliminate the attractants that draw bears into urban spaces to begin with.

Most distressingly, there are even proposals being made to have the military intervene to manage urban bear populations. This escalates the situation unnecessarily, transforming peaceful cities into military zones. Such an approach would waste enormous amounts of money that could be better used for removing the attractants and educating the public about coexisting with these animals.

Data shows that lethal measures do not yield sustainable results in managing wildlife conflicts. Instead, they often exacerbate the problem. By focusing on the elimination of attractants and implementing education programs for the public about bear behavior, we can foster a community of coexistence rather than conflict.

Let's urge our policymakers to stop the needless killing of moon bears and instead invest in solutions that promote safety and coexistence. Advocate for policies that remove food attractants, encourage proper waste management, and initiate educational programs to help citizens understand how to live safely alongside our bear neighbors.

Please sign this petition to pressure decision-makers in Japan to halt lethal action against moon bears and prioritize a humane and effective strategy for peaceful coexistence. Our collective voice can make a difference and show that we stand for compassion and safety for all beings.