CHAPTER THREE
LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORKS ON WILDLIFE LAWS
3.1 INTRODUCTION
Chapter Three focuses on the legal and institutional framework governing Wildlife laws,
building on the conceptual and historical insights presented in Chapter Two. The protection of
endangered species is guaranteed by a plethora of laws, and these laws prohibit and criminalise
acts which are detrimental to their survival. This chapter seeks to examine the legal and
institutional frameworks that have been established to safeguard this species.
3.2 INTERNATIONAL LEGAL FRAMEWORKS
3.2.1 Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora
(CITES)
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)
is a pivotal international agreement aimed at ensuring that international trade in wildlife does not
threaten the survival of species 1. Established in 1973 and entering into force in 1975 2, CITES has
become one of the most significant legal frameworks for wildlife conservation, recognised
globally for its role in regulating the trade of over 40,900 species of animals and plants3.
CITES operates based on a classification system that categorises species into three appendices,
each offering different levels of protection 4. Appendix I includes species that are critically
endangered and threatened with extinction, where commercial trade is generally prohibited 5.
Notable examples are gorillas, pandas, and certain sea turtles. Appendix II encompasses species
1
Seven Seas Worldwide, What is CITES Permit? [Link]
permit/ accessed 10 October, 2025.
2
World Wildlife Organization, What is CITES? [Link] accessed
10 October, 2025.
3
ibid.
4
Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI), Convention on the International Trade in Endangered
Species, [Link] accessed 10
October, 2025.
5
ibid.
that may not be endangered but require strict regulation to prevent over-exploitation 6. This
includes species like various orchids, crocodiles, and American ginseng 7. Finally, Appendix III
lists species that are protected in at least one country and for which that country seeks assistance
from other CITES Parties to regulate trade 8. Examples here include certain populations of
walruses and map turtles9.
To facilitate the regulation of trade, CITES relies on a permit system 10. International trade in
CITES-listed species mandates the issuance of specific permits, ensuring that such trade is
sustainable and legal11. An export permit is necessary for all three appendices, while an import
permit is specifically required for species listed in Appendix I. A re-export certificate is needed
for specimens that were previously imported and are now being exported again 12. Each CITES
Party, or country that has agreed to the convention, designates a Management Authority
responsible for issuing these permits and communicating with the CITES Secretariat, which is
based in Geneva, Switzerland13. As of June 2025, there are 185 parties to CITES, including 184
states and the European Union14.
The effectiveness of CITES is underscored by its successes in reducing illegal trade and raising
awareness about wildlife conservation. For instance, species listed under CITES have seen
population increases due to the protective measures implemented 15. However, challenges persist.
Illegal wildlife trade remains a significant issue, driven by high demand for certain species and
products, often outpacing enforcement efforts. Many countries, particularly those with limited
6
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service International Affairs, CITES Permits and Certificates,
[Link]
accessed 10 October, 2025.
7
ibid.
8
United State Fish Wildlife Service, CITES, [Link]
accessed 10 October, 2025.
9
ibid.
10
Joe Easton, Step by Step Guide to Obtaining CITES Permit in the United States,
[Link] accessed 10
October, 2025.
11
ibid.
12
ibid.
13
Unacademy, 18th Conference of Parties of CITES,
[Link]
Accessed 10 October, 2025.
14
ibid.
15
ibid.
resources, struggle to implement and enforce CITES regulations effectively 16. Additionally, the
complexity of identifying traded species, especially in processed forms, complicates
enforcement17.
CITES is reviewed and updated at meetings known as the Conference of the Parties (CoP),
where member states discuss progress, address challenges, and amend species listings as
necessary18. These meetings, held approximately every three years, allow for the adaptation of
the convention to new challenges and scientific insights, ensuring that CITES remains relevant in
the face of changing environmental and economic conditions. The 20th meeting of the CoP
(CITES CoP20) is scheduled to be held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, from November 24 to
December 5, 202519.
In conclusion, CITES represents a crucial mechanism for the global community to protect
endangered species from the impacts of international trade 20. While it has achieved significant
milestones in conservation, ongoing efforts are needed to tackle illegal trade 21, enhance
enforcement capabilities22, and ensure that the convention adapts to new challenges in wildlife
conservation. The cooperative spirit of CITES underscores the importance of international
collaboration in safeguarding the planet's biodiversity for future generations23.
3.2.2 Bonn Convention
16
Patricia Welty, Is CITES true to its mission and is it Relevant? Lewis & Clark Law School,
[Link] accessed 10 October, 2025.
17
ibid.
18
ibid.
19
United States Fish Wildlife Service, 20th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties,
[Link] accessed 10 October, 2025.
20
ibid.
21
ibid.
22
Michael Rolfes, Does CITES Work? Four Case Studies, Institute Economic Affairs,
[Link] accessed 10 0ctober, 2025.
23
ibid.