IFAW Strategy to Disrupt Global Illicit Wildlife Trade

Wildlife trafficking is currently the fourth most profitable illicit trade globally, generating approximately USD 23 billion annually, ranking just behind narcotics, firearms, and human trafficking. The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) has developed a targeted strategy to disrupt these criminal networks. Rather than focusing solely on low-level poachers, the organization is directing efforts toward dismantling the kingpins behind the operations. These criminal networks often exploit regulatory loopholes and corruption to facilitate their smuggling activities across borders. The strategy aims to address the systemic issues that allow this multi-billion dollar industry to persist.