Legislative Observatory
European Parliament
Please fill in this field to find a procedure

EU common commercial policy in the context of wildlife sustainability imperatives

2016/2054(INI)

The European Parliament adopted by 579 votes to 15, with 20 abstentions, a resolution on EU Common Commercial Policy in the context of wildlife sustainability imperatives.

The world is facing an unprecedented surge in wildlife trafficking. According to estimates, the illegal trade in wild flora and fauna is the fourth most profitable area of criminal activity, with an estimated turnover of as much as EUR 20 billion.

Parliament welcomed the EU action plan against wildlife trafficking and stated that the EU must lead efforts in tackling not only supply-side issues, including development issues on the ground in third countries, but also demand for illegal products in domestic markets, including online platforms.

Parliament called on the EU consider a possible ban at European level of trade, export or re-export within and outside the EU of elephant ivory, including ‘pre-Convention’ ivory, in a manner compliant with WTO law.

It also made the following recommendations:

  • ensuring the private sector’s involvement in the fight against wildlife trafficking, including the engagement of online marketplaces and social media;
  • strengthening the customs dimension of the European Union’s Action Plan and promoting work on information sharing and capacity building, including specific training for customs officers;
  • supporting the approach of including anti-corruption provisions in future trade agreements as well as those aimed at tackling wildlife trafficking;
  • eliminating all remaining legal loopholes that could facilitate the “laundering” of illegally sourced wildlife and wildlife products;
  • allocating sufficient resources should be committed for policies and measures designed to meet the EU’s objectives in terms of combating the illegal wildlife trade, which includes resources for third countries in terms of capacity-building;
  • reinforcing cooperation with all actors concerned to ensure an integrated approach that acts to curtail demand and raise awareness in demand markets;
  • ensuring that the illegal criminal networks and syndicates active in illegal wildlife trade are targeted for disruption, elimination and prosecution.

Parliament underlined that the common commercial policy should promote binding corporate social responsibility standards, given that corporate social responsibility standards are of particular importance within transport networks.