The Fate Of 600 Animal Species Will Be Decided In Panama This Month

Delegates from 184 countries are convening in Panama for the 19th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) to discuss 52 animal welfare amendments that could impact the fate of 600 animal species. Organizations like Humane Society International (HSI) are lobbying for increased protections to prevent species from facing extinction due to overexploitation, including hippos, sharks, and glass frogs. The conference will also address trophy hunting quotas, with calls for stricter sanctions to protect endangered white rhinos and leopards.

HSI is advocating for sustainable pet trade quotas for glass frogs and opposing proposals to reduce protections for at-risk animals. The organization is also part of a coalition calling for a total worldwide ban on trophy hunting imports, citing concerns related to biodiversity crises and climate emergency. Public support appears to be in favor of imposing such a ban, with the majority of global citizens wanting to see an end to trophy hunting practices.