Evaluating the effectiveness of wildlife crime interventions using crime science

• In Event: GREEN Panel 3, Disrupting Criminal Networks: From Waste to Wildlife

Abstract

The trafficking of wildlife threatens the survival of individual species, removes resources from vulnerable peoples, and undermines the rule of law of nation-states. While current approaches to counter wildlife trafficking rely heavily on traditional law enforcement strategies, there is limited evidence showing their effectiveness in reducing wildlife crime. Our research aims to address the dearth of evidence about ‘what works’ and ‘what doesn’t work’ in preventing wildlife crime. We assess the effectiveness of 32 wildlife crime interventions through the lens of two crime science evaluation frameworks, EMMIE and Situational Crime Prevention. Our results indicate that the drivers of wildlife crime are context-specific and require tailored solutions. We found that the most effective interventions were multi-faceted, involving a mix of law enforcement and community-based initiatives that deter offenders while removing incentives for activities like poaching. The presentation will discuss our methodology and provide examples of ‘what works’ in preventing wildlife crime.

Authors

• Damian Weekers, Wildlife Conservation Society

• Ulhas Gondhali, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, City University of New York