International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
The International Union for Conservation of Nature is a global institution that addresses the issue of biodiversity loss. Composed of both civil and government organisations, IUCN has over 1,400 participating members and 18,000 experts in various fields related to conservation efforts, making it the global authority on the status of the natural world.
For decades, illegal wildlife trade has been extremely detrimental to the biosphere. This billion dollar business is the world’s fourth largest criminal enterprise with sellers and buyers all over the world. The high demand for animal parts—whether it is for religious, cultural, or personal purposes—have spurred millions of poachers to hunt down endangered species. With the increase in globalisation, illegal purchases now occur across borders as well.
The IUCN plays an important role in delegating measures to safeguard animals being hunted down. This committee will task delegates with addressing both the demand and supply side of the trade system. The solutions developed by delegates should focus on the global nature of the issue and how cross-border activities challenge the current policies on wildlife trade.
