To ensure that wildlife trade and management is sustainable, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Fauna and Flora (CITES) convened scientific experts for the 33rd Animals Committee meeting. Over 76 governments and 88 observer organisations were represented at the week-long meeting in Geneva, Switzerland. For FACE, this agreement is particularly significant for hunters, especially regarding the movement of certain hunting trophies (e.g. import, export and re-export).

For over a week, delegates and observers from around the world gathered to discuss and address a wide array of global wildlife issues. FACE, alongside its partners, including the International Council for Game and Wildlife Conservation (CIC), Safari Club International (SCI), Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF), the Wild Sheep Foundation (WSF), and Conservation Force monitored and advocated for hunters and conservation on critical matters. Key agenda items at this meeting were, among others, the CITES Strategic Vision, the Review of Significant Trade, the role of CITES in reducing risk of future zoonotic disease and initiatives such as the Joint CITES-CMS African Carnivore Initiative.

The meeting provided a unique opportunity for FACE to engage directly with stakeholders and government representatives, including EU delegates, to address important issues related to sustainable wildlife management. FACE participated in side events, notably one organised by the CIC and the African Wildlife Economy Institute (AWEI) on the Global Wildlife Economy, where experts discussed the importance of sustainable use.

On the evening of Wednesday, the 17^th of July, FACE co-hosted a well-attended reception for the delegates, marking a good opportunity for those present to connect. Over 60 participants attended, fostering closer collaboration and dialogue between stakeholders and parties.

The 33rd CITES Animals Committee meeting underscored the importance of collaboration, scientific expertise, and sustainable use in wildlife conservation. FACE remains committed to engaging with our international partners and other stakeholders to ensure the positive contribution of hunting and conservation practices is recognised.

What is the Animals Committee?

The Animals Committee is an advisory body of experts which was established under CITES. It convenes experts to fill gaps in biological and specialised knowledge regarding animal species which are (or might become) subject to CITES trade controls. It provides the technical support to inform decision-making about these species. This committee meets twice between Conferences of the Parties (COP) to ensure ongoing evaluation and strategic planning. The Animals Committee’s work is crucial for guiding the implementation of CITES provisions and ensuring that informed decisions are made about wildlife trade and conservation.

• Find the summaries of the meeting here
• Learn more about FACE’s work on CITES and other international agreements here