At Lebanese Wildlife, our Advocacy & Lobbying Program is dedicated to ensuring the enforcement of Lebanon’s wildlife protection laws, combating illegal wildlife trade, and promoting ethical conservation practices. By working alongside government authorities, law enforcement agencies, and conservation partners, we strive to uphold existing laws that protect wildlife and their habitats.
Fighting the Illegal Wildlife Trade
Illegal wildlife trade is a major threat to Lebanon’s biodiversity, leading to animal suffering, species decline, and ecosystem disruption. Our team actively works to identify, report, and intervene in cases of wildlife trafficking. Through collaboration with authorities, we have successfully confiscated 147 illegally traded animals, ensuring they receive appropriate care and, when possible, are rehabilitated for release.
Our efforts focus on:
- Investigating and reporting cases of illegal wildlife trade
- Coordinating with authorities to confiscate illegally held wildlife
- Providing care and rehabilitation for confiscated animals
- Ensuring that confiscated animals are not returned to the illegal market
- Enforcing Wildlife Protection Laws
Lebanon has strong wildlife protection laws, but enforcement remains a significant challenge due to lack of awareness, resources, or prioritization. Our team works closely with relevant authorities to ensure that existing laws are effectively implemented by:
- Assisting law enforcement in identifying and addressing wildlife crime
- Providing expert guidance on wildlife confiscations and proper handling of seized animals
- Advocating for strict penalties for wildlife traffickers and illegal traders
Through continuous engagement with government agencies and law enforcement bodies, we work to hold offenders accountable and prevent future violations.
Why It Matters
Illegal wildlife trade and weak enforcement of existing laws pose ongoing threats to Lebanon’s biodiversity. Ensuring that wildlife protection laws are upheld and violators are held accountable is essential to preventing species decline and preserving natural ecosystems. While law enforcement plays a key role, public responsibility and cooperation are also necessary to report violations and discourage illegal wildlife trade.
Every confiscated animal represents a victory in the fight against wildlife trafficking. Through stronger enforcement and a commitment to upholding conservation laws, we can help protect Lebanon’s wildlife and ensure that wild animals remain in the wild where they belong.
