COMPARATIVE ASSESSMENT OF MEASURES TO TACKLE THE ILLEGAL TRADE IN ENDANGERED SPECIES

Abstract

This thesis is an assessment of measures to tackle the illegal trade in endangered species in Australia, South Africa and the UK. Utilising responses from Freedom of Information Act requests, it is shown that organisations have varying reactions when implementing domestic legislation relating to the illegal wildlife trade. Analysis extends to the offences contained within the domestic legislation; the requirements laid down in the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species, along with other legislation aids the combating of the illegal wildlife trade. It highlights both global and national issues and the importance of tackling the illegal wildlife trade. This research helps to identify some of the strengths and weaknesses in the organisations aiming to tackle crime in each country. The findings demonstrate the importance of interrelationships between organisations, with analysis of results in relation to responses of police forces and prosecution services within the countries of study. The methodology put a legal responsibility on the organisations to provide accurate and reliable results regarding their actions, helping to reduce any risk of bias. This methodology demonstrated weaknesses within certain organisations, through the differing responses discussed. The original contribution to knowledge required for a doctoral thesis is the primary data generated through the Freedom of Information requests and the subsequent findings which demonstrate a comparison of the strengths and weaknesses between law and enforcement within each country.