CITES as an International Instrument Against Pandemics that Threaten Human Life

ABSTRACT

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus requires revisiting many global issues, One of these being is the wildlife trade and its adverse effects. Scientific studies have revealed the possibility that the SARS-CoV-2, a zoonotic virus, was transmitted to humans through an endangered wild species (pangolin). Despite pangolins being protected by strict rules under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) they are still the subject of illegal trade. CITES is a comprehensive global convention regulating trade of endangered wildlife species. The convention does not contain any regulations for preventing diseases that threaten human life. However, CITES can indirectly play a role by regulating international trade. This article discusses the possible role CITES and its mechanisms have in preventing SARS-CoV-2 and similar zoonotic viruses. For this purpose, the study examines the proposals for revisions to CITES, including the integration of species shipment regulations and the addition of a new appendix involving animal health. Moreover, the study evaluates proposals to completely ban the trade of wildlife species and the possibility of having CITES intervene in domestic trade. Lastly, the article discusses proposals for recognizing illegal trade as a serious international crime. The main purpose of CITES is to regulate and protect the trade of endangered wild species. No matter what future arrangements are made, acting very meticulously will be necessary by taking into account the concerns of state parties, as this convention depends on states implementing the arrangements.