Orangutan Diplomacy

Context

Malaysia has taken the decision to gift orangutans to trade partners buying its palm oil.

• Objective: To counter sustainability accusations against palm oil plantations.

Animal Diplomacy

Animal diplomacy refers to the use of living animals by  governments in their international relations.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Course

• Nations use animals for diplomatic gestures to signal commitment to certain values or goals.
• Throughout history, animals have been used symbolically to convey qualities or values of leaders or nations.
  • Ancient Practice:
    • Since ancient times, nations have exchanged exotic animals like lions, elephants, and giraffes, as well as domestic animals such as horses, dogs, and birds of prey, as diplomatic gifts.
  • Tang Dynasty Example: The Chinese Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD) notably practiced animal diplomacy by gifting pandas to foreign rulers.
  • Emergence of Soft Power: In the 20th century, animal diplomacy gained significance as a form of soft power.
    • China’s panda diplomacy exemplifies this, where pandas are loaned to other countries to foster goodwill.
  • An Example of Soliman the elephant: In 1551, King John III of Portugal gifted Archduke Maximilian of Austria an elephant named Soliman for his wedding.
    • Soliman’s arrival in Vienna reportedly caused strain in the Archduke’s marriage as the elephant stole the spotlight during the honeymoon.

How do countries decide which animals to use for diplomatic purposes?

Countries decide which animals to use for diplomatic purposes based on several factors:

• Symbolism and Representation: Animals are chosen to symbolize national characteristics or values.
• Cultural Significance: Animals with cultural importance or historical significance are often selected. 
• Public Appeal: Animals that are universally beloved or iconic can capture public attention and foster goodwill. 
• Conservation Status: Endangered species may be chosen to highlight conservation efforts and raise awareness about environmental issues. 
• Diplomatic Objectives: Ultimately, the selection of animals serves diplomatic objectives.
  • It  aims to strengthen relations, promote cultural exchange, and enhance a country’s image on the global stage.

About the Orangutan 

Orangutans live among the trees of tropical rainforests.

• • It is found only in the tropical forests of Borneo (Malaysia and Indonesia) and Sumatra (Indonesia).
• Conservation status IUCN: Critically Endangered
• Species and Habitat: According to WWF, There are three species: Bornean, Sumatran, and Tapanuli.
• Dietary Preferences: Feast on wild fruits like lychees and figs.
• Appearance and Behavior:
  • Both Bornean and Sumatran orangutans possess shaggy reddish fur.
  • Sumatran orangutans feature longer facial hair, setting them apart.
  • Sumatran orangutans are known for forming closer social bonds compared to Bornean orangutans.

Enroll now for UPSC Online Classes