Wildlife Crimes

Theft of genetic resources—often referred to as biopiracy—involves unauthorised collection, use, or commercial exploitation of biological materials or associated traditional knowledge, in violation of national laws or international agreements. Specific illegal practices include collecting or sampling biological materials such as plants, animals, seeds, or microorganisms without required permits, commercially exploiting these genetic resources without adhering to access and benefit-sharing regulations, patenting genetic material or traditional knowledge without informed consent, and exporting biological samples without authorisation. Across the Caribbean region, theft of genetic resources can occur in both terrestrial and marine ecosystems, especially in biodiversity-rich areas targeted for pharmaceutical, agricultural, or cosmetic industry interests.

The potential impacts of genetic resource theft are extensive, intersecting all five CAR-WEN core values. Biodiversity conservation is compromised as valuable genetic materials are extracted unsustainably or without proper ecological safeguards. Although direct animal welfare impacts may vary, unauthorised sampling or collection can cause stress, harm, or mortality to affected wildlife populations. Weak enforcement of access and benefit-sharing frameworks undermines the rule of law, reducing trust in environmental governance and weakening national sovereignty over natural assets. Human well-being is harmed by limiting equitable economic development opportunities, as local communities are excluded from fair compensation and participation in decision-making processes related to their biological resources. Additionally, unauthorised genetic extraction and export elevate potential public health risks, as improperly handled biological materials may lead to biosecurity concerns or spread pathogens internationally.

Effectively addressing theft of genetic resources in the Caribbean requires robust and clear regulatory frameworks for access and benefit-sharing, stronger regional cooperation and enforcement capacities, enhanced protections for traditional knowledge, and meaningful participation of local communities. Successful solutions must balance biodiversity conservation, economic fairness, national sovereignty, and respect for local cultural identities and livelihoods, ensuring sustainable and equitable use of the region's genetic heritage.