Executive Order 13648 · 2013-07-05

Combating Wildlife Trafficking

Creates Federal Task Force to Combat International Wildlife Trafficking

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Signed by Barack Obama
Published 2013-07-05

What it does

Agencies must form a Presidential Task Force and produce a National Strategy to combat wildlife trafficking.

Real-world impact

  • Establishes a multi-agency Task Force to coordinate U.S. anti-trafficking efforts.
  • Requires a National Strategy and an advisory council of outside experts.
  • Directs support for foreign anti-poaching efforts and Interior Department funding.

Topics

wildlife traffickingconservationlaw enforcementinternational crimeforeign assistance

Summary

This order establishes a Presidential Task Force and requires a National Strategy to combat wildlife trafficking, the poaching and illegal trade in protected species. The Task Force is co-chaired by the Secretary of State, the Secretary of the Interior, and the Attorney General and must coordinate agencies' actions.

It directs U.S. agencies to assist foreign governments on anti-poaching and law enforcement, promote stronger laws abroad, reduce demand for illegally traded wildlife, and create an advisory council of non-federal experts; the Department of the Interior will provide funding and support as allowed by law.

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