U N I T E D
N A T I O N S N A T I O N S U N I E S
THE UN SECRETARY-GENERAL
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MESSAGE ON WORLD WILDLIFE DAY
3 March 2015
The United Nations General Assembly
has proclaimed 3 March – the anniversary of the adoption of the Convention on
International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) – as
World Wildlife Day. On this second
observance of the Day, the UN system, its Member States and a wide range of
partners from around the world are highlighting the simple yet firm message
that “It’s time to get serious about wildlife crime”.
Illegal trade in wildlife has
become a sophisticated transnational form of crime, comparable to other pernicious
examples, such as trafficking of drugs, humans, counterfeit items and oil. It is driven by rising demand, and is often
facilitated by corruption and weak governance. There is strong evidence of the increased
involvement of organized crime networks and non-State armed groups.
Illegal wildlife trade undermines
the rule of law and threatens national security; it degrades ecosystems and is
a major obstacle to the efforts of rural communities and indigenous peoples striving
to sustainably manage their natural resources. Combatting this crime is not only essential for
conservation efforts and sustainable development, it will contribute to
achieving peace and security in troubled regions where conflicts are fuelled by
these illegal activities.
Getting serious about wildlife
crime means enrolling the support of all sections of society involved in the production
and consumption of wildlife products, which are widely used as medicines, food,
building materials, furniture, cosmetics, clothing and accessories. Law enforcement efforts must be supported by
the wider community. Businesses and the
general public in all countries can play a major role by, for example, refusing
to buy or auction illegal ivory and rhinoceros horn, and insisting that
products from the world’s oceans and tropical forests have been legally
obtained and sustainably sourced.
On this World Wildlife Day, I urge
all consumers, suppliers and governments to treat crimes against wildlife as a
threat to our sustainable future. It’s
time to get serious about wildlife crime.
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