The first phase of the international project aimed at curbing the illegal trade of wild animals in Central Asia has concluded with a summit held in Tashkent on March 4-5. Representatives from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan convened to assess the progress and chart the way forward in combating this pervasive issue, the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of Uzbekistan reported.
The initiative, titled "Strengthening capacity and support in the fight against wildlife crimes in Central Asia," underscores a collaborative effort among the participating countries to develop and implement effective measures to tackle the illicit wildlife trade. Organized by the Ministry of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of Uzbekistan in conjunction with international partners such as the International Organization of Fauna and Flora, TRAFFIC, and local organizations including the Republican Ecological Resource Center "EKOMAKTAB," the project aims to address the alarming rise in wildlife trafficking, which has become the fourth most profitable illicit trade globally.
Abdurashid Sadikov, head of the Biodiversity Policy Department of the Ministry of Ecology, set the tone for the discussions by highlighting the urgency of the issue.
"Illegal wildlife trade poses a significant threat to biodiversity. Our collaboration with local and international partners is crucial in combatting this trade, which spans air, rail, and other transport routes," Sadikov emphasized.
Key outcomes of the first phase of the project were shared during the summit. Matt Lowton, the program manager for Wildlife Trade in Central Asia at Fauna & Flora International, lauded Uzbekistan's commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Lowton highlighted achievements such as enhanced communication between departments, the training of sniffer dogs to detect wildlife smuggling, and the establishment of cross-border cooperation among Central Asian nations.
However, challenges remain, particularly in enhancing the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies across the region. With shared borders spanning over 19,000 kilometers, countries like Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan face logistical hurdles in allocating resources and coordinating efforts to combat wildlife trafficking effectively.
The summit also emphasized capacity-building initiatives, including seminars and training sessions aimed at improving the identification of endangered species listed under CITES. Informational materials and visual aids were developed to aid law enforcement efforts.
The collaborative efforts within the framework of this project signify a promising step forward in the fight against illegal wildlife trade in Central Asia. By leveraging the expertise and resources of both local and international partners, participating countries are poised to bolster their enforcement mechanisms and protect the rich biodiversity of the region.
About Fauna & Flora
Fauna & Flora is a charitable organization dedicated to preserving the richness of Earth's biodiversity for the benefit of both the planet and its inhabitants. With a legacy spanning over 120 years, Fauna & Flora has pioneered community-centered conservation efforts globally. Collaborating with local partners in nearly 50 nations, the organization endeavors to safeguard ecosystems, restore marine environments, prevent species loss, counter illicit wildlife trafficking, address climate change, and advocate for sustainable policies at both national and corporate levels.
About ACBK
The Association for the Conservation of Biodiversity of Kazakhstan (ACBK) has been actively involved in wildlife preservation efforts since its establishment in 2004. Presently, ACBK operates from two offices, one in Astana and another in Almaty, along with nine branches spread across Kazakhstan. ACBK oversees the management of the Ecological Park "Alty Sai" in the Kostanay region, which was established on the grounds of two former hunting areas. The organization boasts five ACBK member clubs and employs a dedicated team of 53 individuals committed to its mission.
About EKOMAKTAB
The Ecological Resource Center (EKOMAKTAB) is a non-governmental, not-for-profit organization dedicated to environmental education, conservation, and safety. Established in 2005, the organization reaffirmed its commitment to its mission upon re-registration in 2015. Over the years, EKOMAKTAB has successfully implemented over 30 projects aimed at benefiting both the community and the surrounding environment. Under the leadership of Shivaldova Natalia Sergeevna, the organization continues to actively engage in initiatives crucial for environmental preservation and public welfare.
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