Disposal of Confiscated Specimens under CITES

Under CITES, disposal means deciding the final placement or treatment of a live specimen confiscated because of illegal international trade. It is not automatic repatriation: the decision must protect the specimen's welfare, support conservation and prevent its return to unlawful trade.

Treaty framework

Under Article VIII(4), a confiscated live specimen must be entrusted to the Management Authority of the confiscating State. After consulting the State of export, that authority may return it to that State at the latter's expense, place it in a rescue centre, or choose another destination consistent with CITES.

• The Management Authority may seek advice from its Scientific Authority or consult the CITES Secretariat before deciding the specimen's destination.
• A rescue centre is an institution designated by a Management Authority to care for living specimens, particularly confiscated ones.

Principles guiding the decision

CITES guidance requires a case-specific and timely decision that gives priority to humane care, conservation value and risks to wild populations.

• Authorities should identify the specimen, determine its origin where possible, assess its health and secure appropriate housing and veterinary or botanical care.
• The decision should consider disease, genetic, ecological and behavioural risks before any return to the wild.
• Disposal must not stimulate further illegal trade, reward offenders or allow the specimen to re-enter commercial circulation.
• Relevant authorities in the State of export or origin should be consulted when repatriation or release is considered.

Possible outcomes

The principal outcomes are return to the wild, long-term managed care, repatriation or, in exceptional circumstances, humane euthanasia.

• Release is appropriate only where it serves conservation, the specimen is fit, suitable habitat exists and risks to resident populations are acceptable.
• Placement in a rescue centre or other suitable facility is preferred when release is unsafe or impracticable.
• Euthanasia is a last-resort option when acceptable placement is unavailable or continued captivity would cause serious welfare or health problems.