Wildlife Crime Impact Statements: Advocating for Nature in Southern Africa’s Courtrooms
The growing use of Wildlife Crime Impact Statements marks a pivotal shift in how justice systems address environmental crimes. As Southern Africa battles illegal wildlife trade – from rhino horn poaching to reptile smuggling (EMS Foundation Report) – these documents give voiceless victims (endangered species and ecosystems) representation during trials.
Why Impact Statements Matter
- Bridge the legal gap: Animals/plants lack “victim” status despite ecological value (IUCN Report)
- Highlight cascading harm: Show how crimes affect entire ecosystems
- Inform sentencing: Used successfully in Scotland (Government Report) and Hong Kong (SVIS)
EWT’s USAID-Funded Initiative
The Endangered Wildlife Trust now coordinates Wildlife Crime Impact Statements that:
- Detail species’ ecological roles
- Document population threats
- Are authored by scientists/NGOs/government experts
- Reference precedents like India’s Lakshmi Kumari case (Scroll.in)
Addressing All Victims
While rhinos dominate headlines, lesser-known species suffer equally:
- Leopard tortoises smuggled in shoeboxes
- Endangered plants illegally harvested
- Marine species caught as bycatch
As research in the Southern African Journal of Criminal Justice notes (DOI), holistic approaches are vital for effective prosecution.
The Path Forward
These statements help courts:
- Recognise wildlife’s intrinsic value
- Impose deterrent sentences (T&F Study)
- Align with global conservation goals (USAID)
“We’re ensuring magistrates hear both the legal facts and ecological consequences,” says Carina Bruwer, EWT’s Wildlife and Law Project Officer.