In an unprecedented move, the United Nations General Assembly has adopted a resolution aimed at increasing international efforts to combat illegal wildlife hunting. The resolution, passed on July 30, is non-binding but serves as a testament to the growing global concerns and opposition against illegal hunting and the destruction of species that are currently at risk of extinction. The resolution specifically addresses global worries about the continuous slaughter of rhinos and the alarming trend of elephant hunting in Africa. According to the UN, these species face the threat of extinction both locally and internationally due to such hunting practices. AFP reports, citing the NGO 'Elephants Without Borders,' that the population of this African species in the wild has dwindled to 470,000. Compared to 2006, despite efforts to prevent hunting, their numbers have decreased by 80,000 over the past decade. The Wildlife Protection Association reported this year that up to 30,000 elephants are killed annually in Africa. Illegal elephant hunting is primarily conducted for the sale of their ivory. However, the situation for rhinos is even worse. Since 2007, Kruger National Park in South Africa has lost hundreds of rhinos due to illegal hunting. Rhinos are hunted for their horns, which many buyers in East Asia believe enhance male sexual potency. Elephants may soon face the threat of extinction. Despite scientific efforts to debunk these claims and medical advancements for enhancing sexual potency, the continued illegal hunting of rhinos has placed this species on the brink of complete extinction. Reports from 2012 indicated that each kilogram of rhino horn could sell for up to $60,000, more expensive than gold. Allegations of illegal hunting have also been directed at officials and political figures in various countries. Last autumn, a non-governmental organization accused Chinese officials of illegally purchasing a significant amount of ivory during the visit of their president to Tanzania in 2013, smuggling it in diplomatic bags.
UN Issues Resolution to Combat Illegal Hunting
The UN General Assembly has passed a resolution to combat illegal hunting, particularly of rhinos and elephants, which are facing extinction. This non-binding resolution reflects growing global concern over wildlife conservation. The situation is critical, as illegal hunting continues to threaten these species despite international efforts.
👥 Key Players
📰 What Happened
The UN General Assembly passed a non-binding resolution to combat illegal wildlife hunting, particularly focusing on the endangered rhino and elephant populations. This resolution reflects a heightened global concern regarding the extinction threats these species face due to illegal hunting practices.
- The population of elephants in Africa has decreased by 80,000 over the past decade, now totaling around 470,000.
- Rhino horns can sell for up to $60,000 per kilogram, driving illegal hunting despite scientific evidence against their supposed benefits.
💡 Why It Matters
📚 Background
Illegal hunting poses a significant threat to biodiversity, with many species facing extinction due to poaching and habitat loss. The trade in animal parts, like ivory and rhino horns, is driven by demand in certain markets.
🏷️ Entities Mentioned
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