UN delegates agree to negotiate new protocol against environmental crime

Governments meeting at the 13th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime in Vienna, Austria, have approved a resolution to negotiate a new global protocol against environmental crime. Amazon Watch, We Are Born Free, and the Wildlife Conservation Society Newsroom all reported on the decision. The resolution initiates negotiations on an international agreement designed to address illegal activities that directly harm natural resources and ecosystems. [1][2][3]

According to Amazon Watch, the upcoming protocol will target several specific offenses, including illegal mining, trafficking in gold and other precious metals, wildlife and timber trafficking, and waste trafficking. Environmental crimes recognized by international bodies like the United Nations Environment Programme and Interpol also encompass pollution crimes, illegal logging, and illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. [1][7]

Amazon Watch reported that the UN resolution explicitly recognizes the important role of Indigenous Peoples and local communities in combating crimes that affect the environment and related corruption. Advocates highlighted the urgency of protecting these communities and ecosystems, stating that governments owe it to them and future generations to move forward quickly. [1]