The 19th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties (CoP19), also known as the World Wildlife Conference, to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) is currently being held in Panama City. The conference has received significant attention due to its broad-ranging discussions and influential decisions on wildlife conservation and trade regulations.
CITES and CoP19 Insights
CITES is an internationally recognized agreement between 184 governments aimed at ensuring that international trade involving wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. The Convention came into effect in 1975, and India voluntarily joined as the 25th party in 1976. Every two to three years, the Conference of the Parties meets to review the implementation of the Convention.
At the ongoing CoP19, 52 proposals have been made to alter the existing regulations on international trade for various species, including sharks, reptiles, hippos, songbirds, rhinos, 200 tree species, orchids, elephants, turtles, and more.
Decisions Impacting Indian Fauna
One significant decision impacting India is the inclusion of Shisham (Dalbergia sissoo) in Appendix II of the convention. This means India is now required to follow CITES regulations for the trade of this species. However, in a move providing relief, the conference eased the CITES rules for the export of Dalbergia sissoo-based products, which is expected to boost Indian handicraft exports.
Another notable decision was accepting a proposal to include sea cucumbers (Thelenota) in Appendix II of the Convention. A recent analysis by the Wildlife Conservation Society-India (WCS-India) revealed that sea cucumbers were the most frequently trafficked marine species in India between 2015-2021. Tamil Nadu recorded the highest number of marine wildlife seizures during this period, followed by Maharashtra, Lakshadweep, and Karnataka.
Protection of Freshwater Turtles
India’s proposal to induct the freshwater turtle Batagur kachuga (Red Crowned Roofed Turtle) received broad support at CoP19. This proposition was widely appreciated and accepted when introduced. Additionally, India’s efforts to curb wildlife crime, specifically through Operation Turtshield, were commended.
During discussions, India emphasized that many species of turtles and freshwater tortoises recognized as critically endangered, endangered, vulnerable, or near-threatened are already included in its Wildlife Protection Act 1972 and hence are given a high degree of protection.
Understanding Appendix I, II, and III
The CITES Convention has three appendices which categorize species based on their vulnerability to extinction. Appendix I lists most endangered species like gorillas, sea turtles, and giant pandas. In contrast, Appendix II includes species that are not currently threatened but may become so without closely controlled trade, for example, American ginseng, lions, mahogany, and many corals. Lastly, Appendix III includes species listed on the request of a Party that already regulates trade in that species and needs international cooperation to prevent unsustainable or illegal exploitation, such as walruses and Cape stag beetles.
The ongoing CoP19 continues to address various issues related to wildlife conservation and trade, and the outcomes of this meeting are eagerly awaited by conservationists worldwide.
