Wildlife crime

23.1.2015

Question for written answer E-000962-15
to the Commission
Rule 130
Roberta Metsola (PPE)

A recent six-week investigation by the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) found that a total of 33 006 endangered wildlife specimen and wildlife parts and products were sold on 280 online market places across 16 countries worldwide. Six of the 16 countries are EU Member States, with 79 EU websites offering animals and animal products for a total cost of EUR 2 173 393.

1. Given the outcome of the report, is the Commission planning on coming up with initiatives to tackle the illegal trafficking of animals online?

Wildlife trafficking is a cross-border, European issue that requires an EU response.

2. Does the Commission aim to come up with an action plan on wildlife crime that will pool the resources and coordination efforts of Member States required to overcome the problem?