Enforcement Challenges

Cross-border coordination gaps occur when enforcement agencies in different jurisdictions fail to share information, align procedures, or work together effectively to combat wildlife crime. In the Caribbean, diverse legal systems, varying enforcement capacities, and differing national priorities can make it difficult to coordinate wildlife enforcement efforts across borders. Criminal networks exploit these gaps by shifting trafficking routes, using multiple jurisdictions to conceal the origin of illegal wildlife products, and avoiding detection through fragmented enforcement responses.

Poor coordination undermines the efficiency of wildlife enforcement and weakens the region’s collective ability to address transnational wildlife crime. Without consistent communication and joint operational planning, opportunities to intercept illegal shipments, identify key suspects, and dismantle trafficking networks are missed. This lack of cohesion also hampers the enforcement of international agreements and reduces the credibility of regional efforts, ultimately allowing wildlife crime to persist with limited consequences.

Strengthening cross-border coordination requires regular joint operations, compatible information-sharing systems, and the harmonisation of enforcement procedures across jurisdictions. Establishing formal agreements, developing shared training programmes, and designating liaison officers can help bridge operational divides. By fostering trust and consistency among Caribbean wildlife enforcement agencies, the region can present a united front against traffickers and close the gaps they currently exploit.