Thousands of elephants are still used in logging and other heavy work across Southeast Asia in conditions that cause chronic physical and psychological welfare problems.
Working elephants in the logging industry face welfare challenges from physically demanding work, training using aversive methods, and inadequate rest during peak working periods. Unlike agricultural draft animals, elephants remember and respond to abusive training for their entire lives. The phajaan breaking process used to train young elephants involves psychological trauma that creates a submissive relationship through fear. Transitioning logging elephants to welfare-positive sustainable livelihoods is a complex challenge.