Sample letter for reference:

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Dear Minister Thórdís Kolbrún Reykfjörd Gylfadóttir,

 

I am writing to express my deep dismay and disappointment with Iceland’s ongoing whaling. I fully support a permanent ban on whaling in Iceland.

 

The disturbing findings in the 2022 MAST report revealed that 41 percent of the whales killed by Hvalur hf, Iceland's last whaling company, suffered immensely before dying. Despite the implementation of stricter regulations, the first whaling tour of the 2023 season saw two out of three fin whales hunted in clear violation of both Article 5 of the regulations and Iceland's Animal Welfare Act. 

 

Whaling does not support Iceland's economy, with 90 percent of whale products exported to Japan. Furthermore, influential figures in the multi-billion-dollar film industry, including Hollywood Directors, Producers, and Actors, have pledged to avoid filming in Iceland until whaling is banned. This looming economic loss threatens to strike a severe blow to Iceland's economy, a consequence that cannot be overlooked.

 

Living whales also provide significant, ongoing revenue to Iceland's whale watching companies, and associated industries (tour companies, hotels, souvenirs, etc.). Ecotourism (whale watching) has proven to be far more profitable as an ongoing and sustainable resource supporting Iceland's economy. Beyond the economic aspect, whales play a vital role in maintaining the health of marine ecosystems.

 

I urge you to support a future for Iceland without whaling. 

 

Sincerely,