Posted on July, 24 2024

24^th July 2024, Dhulikhel, Kathmandu: The Regional Workshop on Combating Transnational Wildlife Crime in South Asia with a special focus on forests and customs commenced today at Dhulikhel, Nepal. The three-day workshop is hosted by WWF Nepal, WWF Bhutan, and TRAFFIC India in collaboration with South Asia Wildlife Enforcement Network (SAWEN). 32 participants from four SAWEN member countries—Bhutan, India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka are participating in this training program along with SAWEN, ICIMOD, ZSL Nepal, NTNC, WWF Bhutan, and WWF Nepal. 

Dr. Ghana Shyam Gurung, Country Representative of WWF Nepal welcomed the participants and highlighted that wildlife crime is one of the top five global trades, often linked with other forms of crime, which is why we adopt an integrated approach to combat it effectively. "Wildlife protection is at the center of our efforts, closely connected with environmental crimes and the One Health concept. To address these complex challenges, we must also leverage cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence”, he added.

The Chief Guest of the program, Dr. Sindhu Prasad Dhungana, Director General, Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, said, “Nepal is dedicated to stopping wildlife crime, despite the challenges posed by organized and transnational criminals. It is crucial for all stakeholders, including forest, wildlife, border, and customs officials, to collaborate. We must also respect and ensure the rights of communities, indigenous peoples, and uphold human rights in all our law enforcement activities.”

Dr. Naresh Subedi, Member Secretary of the National Trust for Nature Conservation, emphasized the importance of an integrated effort in combating wildlife crime. He stated, "Bringing all partners together on a common platform is crucial in our fight against wildlife crime. Collaboration among various stakeholders enhances our ability to address the issue more effectively and ensures a coordinated response."

The inauguration of the workshop ended with the closing remarks of the chair of the inauguration program, Dr. Krishna Prasad Acharya, Secretary General of SAWEN. He stated “This workshop is a part of enhancing our collaboration and strengthening relationships across the region. There are experts; please leverage the situation, extract the information, and learn from each other.” He mentioned that sharing best practices between member nations is vital, and SAWEN has been substantial in building and further reinforcing the network. South Asia is a biodiversity hub, which includes critical hotspots, and the challenges faced by personnel involved are huge. Therefore, transboundary efforts are crucial. In this regard, SAWEN is committed to bringing together experts from regional countries and continuing to share the best practices. “Let’s remember that our strength lies in our unity and shared commitment to protecting our natural world. Together we can create a future where wildlife can thrive without wildlife crime," concluded Dr. Acharya.

This workshop is funded by INL (Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs), Department of State, Government of US.
 
For any queries or more information, please contact  
Mr. Madhav Khadka at madhav.khadka@wwfnepal.org (+977 9801048969) or Ms. Sneha Tamrakar at sneha.tamrakar@wwfnepal.org.