International Cooperation in the Fight Against Environmental Crime: A Modern Mechanism for Combating Illegal Trade in Wildlife

Abstract

A vivid example of international cooperation is the combination of efforts in the fight against environmental crime. According to the International Criminal Police Organization, illegal trade in wildlife has moved up to rank 2 in terms of profitability after drug trafficking. To combat the illegal movement of objects of wild fauna and flora, the interaction of all countries is necessary. This article discusses the international mechanism to combat the illegal movement of objects of wild flora and fauna, which consists of the legal component, international organizations and joint operations, as well as projects. The main normative legal act is the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. The CITES Conference of the Parties to the Convention was established to ensure the application of this act. The CITES Conference of the Parties to the Convention should be seen as a cooperation in efforts to combat the illegal trade in wild species of flora and fauna. It is important to develop integration processes at the level of the Eurasian Economic Union. It is necessary to improve interaction with government bodies and organizations, including through international cooperation. It is worth noting that the EAEU is considering the formation, maintenance and use of a database of issued licenses, permits and conclusions in the field of foreign trade in goods through integration and cooperation.