The founders of the International Fund for Animal Welfare, or IFAW, reject the notion that the interests of humans and animals were separate. Instead they embrace the understanding that the fate and future of harp seals-and all other animals on Earth-are inextricably linked to our own. 

IFAW’s actions drew international attention to the plight of the seal pups and rallied worldwide condemnation of the hunt. Thanks to IFAW’s continued vigilance, it is now illegal to hunt whitecoat seal pups for commercial purposes on the ice floes off Canada’s east coast. This is a fragile victory, however, for Canada’s commercial seal hunt persists. IFAW continues to document and expose abuses of the commercial hunt and press for an end to this cruel, unsustainable slaughter. Over the years, the small team of committed campaigners reaching out to help seals has grown to become the world’s leading international animal welfare organization. IFAW begins its fourth decade of operation with more than 200 experienced campaigners, legal and political experts, and internationally acclaimed scientists working from offices in 17 countries around the world.

Now numbering 1.2 million supporters worldwide,  this broad base makes it possible for IFAW to engage communities, government leaders, and like-minded organizations around the world and achieve lasting solutions to pressing animal welfare and conservation challenges-solutions that benefit both animals and people.