This policy report summarises the findings of an investigation into the effectiveness of policy interventions addressing illegal and unsustainable wildlife trade, including legislative and enforcement measures, measures to influence consumer behaviour, trade policy responses and engagement of local communities.

Combating illegal wildelife trade and further pursuing conservation-development models could help generate considerable economic benefits for African countries, while ensuring the long-term preservation of Africa’s wealth of natural capital.

The trafficking of wildlife is increasingly recognised as both a specialised area of organized crime and a significant threat to many plant and animal species. In response to this growing awareness, UNODC has been mandated to build a Global Programme on Wildlife and Forest Crime, and research is a key part of this Programme. This...