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Sustainable
eNews |
November 2002 |
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IWMC
World Conservation Trust |
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Discovering
Species,
Uncovering Tactics
November 13, 2002
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The talent for protectionist NGOs and countries to
come across supposed new species of elephants and whales is surely worthy
of study. The timing of each discovery somehow coincides with proposals
that would transfer that same species of abundant wildlife to Appendix II
or de-restrict trade in some way.
During CITES COP12 we have learnt from Kenya that there may
be more species of African elephant, so far undocumented, and that we
should therefore adopt a precautionary approach, i.e. maintain trade bans.
This should presumably last for as long as a process can be made to take
before it determines that we have really discovered a new type of red
herring.
 The same has also been said about abundant minke whales,
presumably with the hope of finding a new species that justifies the
restrictions already in place. Of course, that just demonstrates that the
current restrictions cannot be justified.
Of course, this is all simply a tactic for delaying the
utilization of abundant wildlife resources by introducing new and
unnecessary concerns into international decision-making. We can only wonder
how many more new species will suddenly arise at opportune moments, such as
around the time of COP13. 
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The Role of Intimidation:
or the Real Meaning of Transparency
Special Edition: November 15, 2002
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The Party States would feel less pressure in using
the Secret Ballots whenever the sovereignty of the Parties or the integrity
of the Convention is in jeopardy. The voting rights of
people and nations should always remain sacred. Opponents of the secret
ballot say it would diminish the so-called "transparency" of the
proceedings and destroy the credibility of the institution. This is far
from being true.
To begin with, the actions of a delegation must be
transparent to its own government and people. But no delegates should
need to explain their voting behaviour, or be accountable, to delegates
from other countries or to NGOs. In CITES, the only benefit to open voting
is that it permits coercion and pressure on small nations from more
powerful nations and wealthy NGOs.
International organisations are using secret ballots more
and more as a means of protecting members from coercion. It is important to
ensure that a delegate's vote reflects principles, national philosophy,
cultures and traditions… and not fear of reprisal. Coercion is highly
polarising and brings an end to constructive diplomatic discussions.
Outrageous behaviour creates tension, fear, and distrust and fuels the fire
of discord. The only entities who benefit from such actions are the NGOs
who proudly trumpet their obstructive activities for fundraising purposes
(See again CITES Secretariat Notification 2000/60).
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