It’s time to get serious about wildlife crime – this statement from the United Nations secretary-general Ban Ki-moon for World Wildlife Day, to be observed tomorrow, is something that the world has to take note of and take substantial action, on the ground.
The UN General Assembly has proclaimed March 3 – 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”.
As the top UN official has pointed out, illegal trade in wildlife has become a sophisticated transnational form of crime, comparable to other pernicious examples, such as trafficking of drugs, humans and counterfeit items.  There is strong evidence of the increased involvement of organised crime networks and non-Stated 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.  Combating 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, all consumers, suppliers and governments should treat crimes against wildlife as a threat to our sustainable future.  
CITES secretary-general John E Scanlon has highlighted that illegal wildlife trade is threatening the survival of some of our most charismatic species, as well as some plants and animals we may have never heard of.  And it threatens people, their livelihoods, their safety and security.
As we celebrate the beauty and variety of our wildlife let’s do whatever we can – as citizens and as consumers – to bring this illegal trade to an end and secure a sustainable future for wild animals and plants, as well as for ourselves.
From Atlas bear to Western black rhinoceros, a number of species have become extinct, mainly due to human activities. This list will undoubtedly grow longer if serious restraint or reversal of certain extremely harmful activities are not practiced by humanity. After all, we should always remember that each species, be it microscopic or gigantic in size, is entitled to its fair share of space on this planet. Let’s all mark this special World Wildlife Day by getting serious about wildlife crime.

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