27 Nov 2025 Global Wildlife Conference on Wildlife Trade
The CITES Conference of the Parties (CoP) is currently taking place in Uzbekistan, bringing together governments, NGOs, and international conservation leaders to shape the future of global wildlife trade governance. This landmark meeting plays a central role in regulating the international movement of wildlife and wildlife products—an issue of direct relevance to European hunters, particularly regarding the movement of certain hunting trophies. FACE is present at the conference, ensuring that the perspectives of Europe’s hunting community are well represented in these important global discussions.
While CITES’ core mandate focuses on regulating wildlife trade to ensure it remains sustainable, the Convention has expanded its remit in recent years into broader areas that affect conservation, local communities, and sustainable use worldwide. Many of these developments have implications for how wildlife is managed on the ground, including for rural communities that depend on nature for their livelihoods. FACE is closely monitoring these debates to ensure that any new measures remain science-based, proportionate, and respectful of successful conservation models built around sustainable use.
To strengthen this work, FACE is partnering with a wide range of international organisations that champion sustainable use and community-led conservation. Together, we are contributing to solutions that benefit both wildlife and people, ensuring that evidence-based governance, cultural knowledge, and local stewardship remain central to global conservation policy. Throughout the conference, FACE will continue to share insights, outcomes, and key developments as this pivotal meeting unfolds.
European Parliament’s Position
On 23 October 2025, the European Parliament adopted a resolution on the EU’s objectives for the upcoming global wildlife conference (CITES CoP20), aiming to strengthen the EU’s commitment to ensuring that trade in wild fauna and flora is legal and sustainable. Recent debates within Parliament have highlighted the need for balanced, science-based policies on wildlife trade, ensuring that EU decisions contribute positively to global conservation goals.
What is FACE’s position?
See the joint FACE, SCI and SCIF Sustainable Use Voting Guide for recommended positions on issues that impact hunting and other sustainable use priorities.
