On 27 June in Brussels, European policymakers, African delegations, and NGOs met at the European Parliament to discuss how best to combat wildlife trafficking, which is crucial for halting the decline of biodiversity.
At the event, chaired by Member of the European Parliament Alex Agius Saliba (S&D, Malta), a major focus was placed on the European Union's action plan against wildlife trafficking. A number of topics were discussed, including the need to prevent wildlife trafficking and address its root causes, the existing policy framework and regulations, the key role of local communities, and the importance of global partnerships.
MEP Alex Agius Saliba pointed out that illegal wildlife trafficking remains a serious and widespread problem, requiring action and increased awareness. In his opening remarks, he stated: “I am pleased that the European Union is taking the lead in combating wildlife trafficking, as it plays a vital role. It is important to emphasise that legal and sustainable use and trade of wildlife can contribute to the recovery of endangered species populations by creating incentives for nature conservation for local communities and individuals. Local communities are affected by illegal wildlife trafficking at many levels and must continue to be recognised as key partners in combating wildlife trafficking”.
The European Union's Action Plan against Wildlife Trafficking recognises that the EU is a significant global hub for wildlife trade. Furthermore, the EU is globally well-positioned to help lead the fight against wildlife trafficking. This was emphasised in a keynote speech by Jorge Rodriguez Romero, Head of the Global Environmental Cooperation and Multilateralism Unit at the European Commission's Directorate-General for Environment: “Illegal wildlife trade contributes to biodiversity loss, increases risks to public health, and denies local communities legal and sustainable income. The recently adopted EU Action Plan against Wildlife Trafficking aims to provide a comprehensive framework to step up efforts to combat illegal wildlife trade both in the EU and globally. Local communities have a vital role in wildlife management and conservation, and their active involvement is essential to effectively fight against illegal wildlife trade.”
During the event, various strategies for combating wildlife trafficking and poaching were mentioned. The African delegations in attendance highlighted initiatives already being implemented. It was acknowledged that initiatives must be carried out within the EU and beyond that support livelihoods and provide incentives for local communities to support and value nature conservation.
Sustainable use of wildlife was mentioned several times as an important tool for promoting locally-led conservation efforts. It was stressed that nature tourism, well-managed hunting, and sustainable wildlife trade are important for supporting nature conservation and funding anti-poaching operations.
Speaking about conservation measures already implemented in Tanzania, the Ambassador of the United Republic of Tanzania to the EU, H.E. Jestas Abouk Nyamanga (Jestas Abouk Nyamanga), noted: “Sustainable hunting gives life to communities and is a key pillar of sustainable conservation”. At the same time, he emphasised the need to adopt science-based decisions, providing various examples of on-the-ground initiatives that benefit both communities and nature conservation.
The experience of Botswana was highlighted by Tebatso Balesenga, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Botswana to the European Union. She pointed to anti-poaching operations that are outlined in the country's national anti-poaching strategy, which was developed in 2018 and updated in 2022. She added that inter-agency committees meet weekly to exchange intelligence for the planning and implementation of law enforcement operations.
Edward van Asch, ICCWC Coordinator for the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), introduced the various initiatives and cross-sectoral priorities related to the mission of the International Consortium on Combating Wildlife Crime (ICCWC).
The event was moderated by University of Oxford researcher Michael 't Sas-Rolfes, who emphasised: “To effectively conserve biodiversity, we need nuanced policies that distinguish between illegal wildlife extraction and trade (which should be prevented) and legal and sustainable use and trade. This applies particularly to developing countries, where the livelihoods and goodwill of many people are linked to wildlife use. The revised EU Action Plan, when appropriately applied, provides a very useful framework for achieving these nuanced goals.”
The ongoing fight against wildlife trafficking requires the contribution of various stakeholders at a global level. It was clear that many African delegations, along with the EU and its Member States, have worked diligently to fight against wildlife trafficking. Further collaboration and cooperation must continue, as must the recognition of viable systems that deliver results for wildlife protection.