Bhutan and India collaborate on joint effort to protect endangered species in South Asia
- In Reports
- 03:20 PM, Dec 07, 2023
- Myind Staff
In a collaborative effort, India, Bhutan, Nepal, and Bangladesh have joined forces to tackle the widespread problem of wildlife trafficking and trade in South Asia. Acknowledging the urgency and interconnected nature of the issue in the region, these nations have launched a collective project aimed at enhancing the capabilities of their respective law enforcement agencies, as reported by The Bhutan Live.
The project's overarching vision goes beyond individual training, aiming to strengthen the South Asia Wildlife Enforcement Network (SAWEN) as a pivotal platform for regional cooperation. By providing capacity-building opportunities, introducing new tools and technologies, and supporting effective prosecution, the project seeks to empower SAWEN as a leading force in the fight against wildlife trafficking.
A total of 34 senior enforcement officials, representing forest departments, customs, police, and paramilitary forces from Bhutan, Nepal, and Bangladesh, actively participated in a 9-day training program hosted in India, as reported by The Bhutan Live.
This collaborative initiative represents a significant advancement in the fight against wildlife trafficking in South Asia. Through the consolidation of collective strength and expertise, these nations aim to establish a more effective and coordinated response to this pressing environmental and security threat.
It serves as an exemplary demonstration of regional cooperation in action, highlighting the commitment of these countries to preserve their shared natural heritage and ensure a future for endangered species.
The training program, focusing on crucial aspects of dismantling wildlife trafficking networks, centers on three key areas: enhancing interdiction, cultivating investigative and enforcement capabilities, and improving cross-border coordination. This comprehensive approach recognizes the organized and transnational nature of wildlife crime, necessitating a strategic and tactical response.
The success of this project relies on maintaining a sustained commitment, fostering collaboration, and allocating resources effectively. The initial steps taken are promising, instilling hope that South Asia has the potential to become a region where wildlife flourishes and illegal trade is eliminated. This united front has the potential to serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges, paving the way for a global solution to the issue of illegal wildlife trade, as reported by The Bhutan Live.
Image source: ANI
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