Overview of the UNODC Wildlife Crime Report
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has released its third edition of the World Wildlife Crime Report, titled “World Wildlife Crime Report 2024: Trafficking in Protected Species.” This report sheds light on the enduring problem of illegal trafficking in both plant and animal wildlife, emphasizing its extensive global implications.
Key Findings and Trends
The 2024 report utilizes data from 2020-2021 to offer a detailed look at the patterns of illegal wildlife trade, despite the COVID-19 pandemic causing disruptions which likely resulted in reduced seizure data during these years. From 2015 to 2021, approximately 13 million items were seized involving around 4,000 species across 162 countries and territories, with 3,250 of these species listed under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) appendices.
Most Trafficked Species
The report identifies corals (16%), crocodilians (9%), and elephants (6%) as the most trafficked species during the period analyzed. Notably, there has been a decline in the trafficking of elephant ivory and rhinoceros horn, marking a positive shift in the fight against wildlife crime.
Legislative and Enforcement Recommendations
The UNODC stresses the need for stronger enforcement and implementation of existing wildlife protection laws, including anti-corruption measures. The report emphasizes that effective legislation is crucial for preventing the local or global extinction of rare plant and animal species.
Sustainable Development Goals Indicator
For the first time, the report includes an indicator of progress towards the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target 15.7, which aims to end the trafficking of protected species of flora and fauna. This inclusion underscores the critical role of international efforts in achieving these global environmental objectives.
Conclusion
The World Wildlife Crime Report by UNODC serves as a crucial document for understanding the scope and scale of wildlife trafficking, advocating for enhanced global cooperation and robust legal frameworks to combat this persistent threat to biodiversity.
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