The European Union and wildlife trafficking

Support of the reinforcement of the capacities of developing countries

The EU should undertake comprehensive mapping of the needs of countries and the funds available. EU efforts should be increased and integrated into its development cooperation policy. Funding mechanisms should be better coordinated as regards wildlife trafficking. Local communities should be involved in the programming and the creation and monitoring of protected areas was seen as vital. Furthermore, the general issues of capacity-building, training, equipment supply, fight against corruption and the support of regional wildlife enforcement networks were considered important.

Improvement of data on wildlife crime in the EU

Generally, the lack of data, including data on court cases and sentences was felt to be a serious obstacle to effectively fighting wildlife crime. National data collection systems should be improved and preferably established in a unified format for all Member States. Another option would be a common EU-wide database. Data sharing at national level and within the EU could be considerably improved. And regular reports should be made on wildlife crime both at national and EU level.

Strengthening enforcement against wildlife trafficking and cooperation

Responses suggested the elaboration of an enforcement strategy or guidelines for uniform enforcement within the EU. Sanctions should be stricter if they are to have a deterrent effect, which might imply an approximation of sanctions within the EU. Training and awareness-raising activities should be made available to all agencies which are involved in enforcement. Internet trade and mail services trade were new methods which required attention. The traceability of CITES-listed species should be improved. Generally, better cooperation between enforcement agencies within Member States and at the EU level was considered necessary, cross-agency task forces or regular meetings of different enforcement agencies were important. Europol - the European police organization, and EUROJUST - the European judicial cooperation body in criminal matters also should assume responsibilities in the enforcement of wildlife provisions. As regards the judiciary, training was considered the main tool to improve awareness, preferably joint training with other parts of the enforcement chain. The judiciary should also be better informed about the adverse impact of illegal wildlife trade on businesses engaged in legal trade.