We did it! Our ‘Born To Be Free’ campaign is directly credited with influencing a new EU action plan to combat wildlife trafficking

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EU Action Plan announced to step up fight against wildlife trafficking

The Commission has announced it is preparing an EU Action Plan to step up the fight against wildlife trafficking, following a successful campaign by the Born Free Foundation and Liberal Democrat MEP Catherine Bearder. The comprehensive plan will bring together environmental experts, police and trade officials from across the EU to crack down on the illegal trade, now the fourth largest in the world.

The plan will aim to close loopholes which allow gangs to smuggle ivory and other illegal wildlife products into Europe. Catherine Bearder, founder of the cross-party MEPs for Wildlife Group, is calling for measures including minimum penalties across the EU for wildlife trafficking, a dedicated wildlife crime unit in Europol and a permanent fund for anti-poaching efforts in developing countries.

Liberal Democrat MEP Catherine Bearder commented:

“After years of campaigning, I’m delighted the EU is finally preparing to crack down on wildlife traffickers.

“We need coordinated EU action shut down wildlife trafficking networks in Europe and take on poachers in Africa.

“Unless we want our children to live in a world without elephants, lions or rhinos, we must act now.”