Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES)
CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) is an international agreement between governments. Its aim is to ensure that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten the survival of the species.
SCI and SCI Foundation have engaged with CITES since the Convention began in the 1970s, advocating for sustainable wildlife trade on behalf of the international hunting industry.
SCI Foundation plays a crucial role in ensuring that wildlife policy and management are informed by the best available scientific research. As a leading proponent of sustainable use within CITES, the Foundation was instrumental in establishing the CITES and Livelihoods Working Group. This initiative created a mechanism for swiftly assessing the effects of CITES regulations on local communities’ livelihoods.
Decisions made at the Conference of the Parties (CoP) significantly influence international trade, including the import and export of hunting trophies, affecting various species worldwide.
