Is a world without the donkey possible?
The donkey is a very important animal, playing multipurpose (pivotal) roles in rural economies, pastoralism, water harvest, recreation, ecosystem services, urban transport, and as a farm’s guardian, etc. The donkey is one of the oldest human companions in history. Unfortunately, the role of the donkey has never been appreciated accordingly, they are facing cruelty in many cultures and now the skin trade has posed an alarming threat and has raised the question of their existence. Academics, researchers, policymakers, activists, and other stakeholders must try to understand the donkey’s role and give proper space in the R&D policies globally.