In connection with “International Environment Day,” a roundtable was held at the Heydar Aliyev Center.

With the resolution adopted by the UN General Assembly in 1972, June 5 was declared “International Environment Day,” and since that date, this international day has been observed worldwide every year. According to the decision of the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), the theme of “International Environment Day” for 2016 was designated as “Combating the Illegal Trade in Wildlife.”

On the initiative of the IDEA Public Association, a UNEP member, a roundtable on “Wildlife Smuggling” was held at the Heydar Aliyev Center on June 2 in connection with “International Environment Day.” The event was attended by representatives of relevant state bodies, including law enforcement agencies, scientists, researchers, civil society organizations, and representatives of international organizations.

During the event, a video message from the UNEP Executive Director on “International Environment Day” was shown, and a briefing on the illegal trade in wildlife was presented.

Roundtable participants analyzed the global trade in valuable fauna species and discussed the potential impacts on our country of the killing and smuggling of endangered species for profit.

On the initiative of IDEA’s founder Leyla Aliyeva, the “Big Five of the Caucasus” — five main animal species in the region at risk of extinction (leopard, gazelle, brown bear, gray wolf, and imperial eagle) — were identified. Over the past period, the IDEA Public Association, together with the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources and international partners, has implemented a number of successful projects for the protection of these valuable species. As a result, the protection of these species has been strengthened, their habitats restored, and favorable conditions created for their natural reproduction. However, as in the rest of the world, one of the greatest obstacles to wildlife conservation in our country remains the killing, smuggling, and illegal trade of these animals for profit.

Speakers emphasized the importance of improving legislation and continuing institutional measures for the more effective protection of our rare flora and fauna species. In addition, proposals were made regarding the application of advanced international practices in our country.

The proposals raised during the event have been sent to the relevant state bodies for consideration.