The European Union and wildlife trafficking

Increase the EU's political commitment and improve the use of diplomatic tools

Several answers suggested exposing to the public the full impact and problem of wildlife trafficking, including its environmental and socio-economic consequences, links with transnational organised crime, corruption and political stability in some regions. The EU should consider the publication of a yearly report on global and EU wildlife trafficking. It should raise the topic at multilateral and bilateral high-level meetings and use its diplomatic channels to raise wildlife trade questions in discussions and negotiations with third countries.

Promotion of tools at international level

Many respondents stressed the need to fully implement existing commitments and to better coordinate international cooperation in the field of enforcement. The EU might increase its support to the International Consortium for Combating Wildlife Crime (ICCWC), include wildlife trafficking issues into Free Trade Agreements which it negotiated, and conclude bilateral memoranda of understanding with third countries. Some answers suggested completing the UN Convention on Transnational Organised Crime (UNTOC) by a Protocol on wildlife trafficking.

EU tools to address demand for illegal wildlife products

While respondents agreed that the demand side of wildlife products should be addressed, few concrete proposals were made. Awareness-raising campaigns and demand reduction programs, addressed at the public at large were suggested. Also, the EU should destroy its stocks of ivory and rhino horns and ban trade in pre-CITES ivory, to set signs of its political determination.

Add value to the peace and security implications of wildlife trafficking

The answers limited themselves to suggesting further exploration of the link between wildlife trafficking and (regional) peace and security as well as terrorism. Where such links were established, targeted sanctions against the individuals involved should be supported.