Policy implications

Wildlife crime involving organized criminal groups is serious crime. No country is untouched by this crimes, which impacts biodiversity, human health, national security and socio-economic development, and lines the pockets of organized criminal groups. The illegal trade in wildlife, which by definition does not go through proper sanitary and phytosanitary controls, can potentially lead to the spread of zoonoses, such as SARS-CoV-2 that caused the COVID-19 pandemic. Addressing the biodiversity crisis and its cascading effects cannot be done without acknowledging the negative impact caused by transnational organized crime and corruption, across the entire wildlife trafficking chain. As each country may be a source, transit and/or destination country, each has a role to play in acting to prevent and address these crimes through disruption and deterrence. Wildlife crime, like other organized crimes, must be addressed through a balanced approach that targets the complementary pillars of supply, demand and livelihoods.

Sustainable Development Goals:

Responsible Consumption and Production

Life Below Water

Life on Land