In April 2015, we concluded this year-long research project with presentations in Washington DC. We wrote six papers as part of this project which are proprietary to the client, the Congressional Research Service. Six students — Leo Carter, Caitlin Goodrich, LinhPhung Huynh, Cliff Kaplan, Delfina Rossi, and Wade Tanner —… read more
Multilateral
Multiplier Effect
While ecotourism provides clear, direct economic benefits to countries, those benefits are often underestimated, since the numerous inputs required to support the ecotourism industry are difficult to quantify. For example, items such as food, supplies, transportation, public works, infrastructure, and manpower are required to support ecotourism. Additionally, local citizens employed… read more
The Trans-Pacific Partnership and Wildlife Trafficking
As President Obama has been pitching the Trans-Pacific Partnership to voters and elected officials, he has meet fierce resistance from some of his fellow Democrats. The trade deal, still in the process of being negotiated, involves at present 12 Asian countries and is meant to facilitate freer trade among them.… read more
EU Accession to CITES: Unity or Disunity?
Last month the European Union became the first regional entity to accede to CITES. This means that the EU will have a greater capacity to participate in the regime and assist non-EU states with CITES-related projects. Additionally, the EU can cast one vote that carries the weight of a vote from each… read more
Are taskforces effective in curbing illicit wildlife trade?
On February 2014, President Obama approved the National Strategy for Combating Wildlife Trafficking and Commercial Ban on Trade in Elephant Ivory. This strategy entails strengthening U.S. role in combating wildlife trafficking, including: strengthening both national and global enforcement, reducing consumer demand, and strengthening partnerships and relations with nations, NGOs and… read more
The role of “other” multilateral organizations
Aside from the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wildlife Fauna and Flora (CITES), prominent multilateral organizations are working to combat wildlife trafficking. These organizations include the United Nations, the World Bank, the World Customs Organization, and INTERPOL. Together with CITES, these five organizations established the International Consortium… read more
China Protecting (Chinese) Elephants
Chinese ivory demand is as large as it is famous. China has been accused of driving the dramatic increases in elephant poaching in Africa, with more than 30,000 elephants killed per year for their ivory. A less known fact is that China itself is home to over 250 wild elephants,… read more
Wildlife Crime and the Rule of Law
Though often seen as an environmental issue because of its degradation of species populations, wildlife crimes such as poaching and trafficking have ramifications beyond immediate threats to biodiversity or environmental health. Wildlife trafficking also threatens national security and can undermine the rule of law. Though the concept of “the rule… read more
Changes in the European Wildlife Trade Framework
The European Union (EU) has a well-regulated market for wildlife hunting trophies and live wildlife trade, but there are some loopholes that allow increased wildlife trafficking to enter the EU. Therefore, the EU is reviewing its regulation to combat trafficking. This reform process might influence the global status quo on… read more
Mercado de Sonora: Black Magic, Black Trade
Can’t find the love of your life? Having problems with a mean boss? Trying to get a powerful lucky charm? Want to get rid of your bad luck? The Mercado de Sonora, in the heart of Mexico City, offers a wide variety of occult items to fulfill any macabre… read more