Qatar's international efforts in combating wildlife crime lauded

The Standing Committee of CITES applauded Qatar's dedication to combating wildlife crime during its 81st meeting in Geneva. The Committee acknowledged the nation's significant strides in implementing its national plan, enhancing oversight and law enforcement, and securing transport routes from illegal trade exploitation. The Convention Secretariat recommended concluding Qatar's involvement in the National Ivory Action Plan (NIAP) process, citing that the country had fulfilled 93% of the measures outlined in the plan.

Illegal ivory seizures in other countries, linked to shipments passing through Qatar, dropped by over 99% compared to the eight years preceding the plan's implementation in 2018. Dr Ibrahim Abdul Latif al-Maslamani, Qatar's Undersecretary for Protection and Natural Reserves Affairs, stated that the decision reflects international recognition of the country's progress and the successful translation of international commitments into practical actions.

He emphasized that Qatar's transition to a permanent institutional framework for wildlife conservation marks a significant milestone. The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change attributed this achievement to collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Interior, General Authority of Customs, Public Prosecution, security agencies, and transportation providers like Hamad International Airport and Qatar Airways.

Qatar joined the NIAP process in 2017, adopting a national plan with 15 priority measures in 2018, focusing on legislative development, inspection mechanisms, personnel competence, ivory stockpile management, and information exchange.