CMS Launches Global Initiative to Combat Illegal Taking of Migratory Species
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The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) has launched the Global Initiative on the Taking of Migratory Species (GTI).
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GTI aims to combat the illegal and unsustainable taking (hunting, trapping, fishing) of migratory wildlife.
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The initiative was unveiled during the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP15) of CMS.
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It underscores the global commitment to protect species that cross national borders, facing threats from illicit exploitation.
- ●Initiative Name: Global Initiative on the Taking of Migratory Species (GTI)
- ●Launching Body: Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS)
- ●Launch Event: CMS 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP15)
- ●Primary Objective: To address the illegal and unsustainable taking of migratory wildlife.
Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) / Bonn Convention
The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS), also known as the Bonn Convention, is an international treaty under the aegis of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). It provides a global platform for the conservation and sustainable use of migratory animals and their habitats worldwide. It aims to conserve terrestrial, aquatic, and avian migratory species throughout their range.
Simple Analogy: Imagine an international agreement where countries work together to protect animals that travel across many borders, like birds flying south for winter or whales migrating through oceans, ensuring they are safe wherever they go.
Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS)
An intergovernmental treaty dedicated to the conservation of migratory species and their habitats.
Illegal Wildlife Trade (IWT)
GTI directly addresses a component of IWT, focusing on the 'taking' (hunting, trapping, fishing) of migratory species. IWT is a major global crime, often linked to organized crime, and is also addressed by CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora).
Biodiversity Conservation
The initiative contributes to broader global biodiversity conservation goals, aligning with targets set under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, by protecting key species and their ecological roles.
Exam Relevance
GS-III Environment & Ecology: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment. GS-II International Relations: International institutions, agencies and fora, their structure, mandate.
General Awareness: International organizations, environmental initiatives.
General Awareness: Environmental news, international conventions.
General Science/GK: Environmental conservation, international bodies.
General Awareness: International agreements, environmental issues.
Previously Asked (PYQs)
The term 'M-STrIPES' is sometimes seen in the news in the context of
Answer: Maintenance of Tiger Reserves
With reference to a conservation organization called 'Wetlands International', which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. It is an intergovernmental organization formed by the countries which are signatories to Ramsar Convention. 2. It works at the field level to develop and mobilize knowledge, and use the practical experience to advocate for better policies. Select the correct answer using the code given below.
Answer: 2 only
Consider the following statements: Once the Central Government notifies an area as a 'Community Reserve' 1. the Chief Wildlife Warden of the State becomes the governing authority of such forest 2. hunting is not allowed in such area 3. people of such area are allowed to collect non-timber forest produce 4. people of such area are allowed traditional agricultural practices How many of the above statements are correct?
Answer: Only one
Expected Questions
- ★UPSC may ask: 'Consider the following statements regarding the Global Initiative on the Taking of Migratory Species (GTI)...' or 'Which of the following conventions is primarily concerned with the conservation of migratory species?'
- ★SSC/Banking may ask: 'GTI, recently launched, is associated with which international convention?' or 'Where is the headquarters of CMS located?'
Topic Frequency
Medium-High for UPSC (environmental conventions), Medium for other exams.
Key Terms
Animals that cyclically and predictably move from one habitat to another, often across national borders.
Unauthorized hunting, trapping, fishing, or harvesting of wildlife, violating national or international laws.
The supreme decision-making body of an international convention, where member states meet to review progress and make decisions.
Must Remember
- •CMS is also known as the Bonn Convention.
- •India is a signatory to CMS and has hosted its COP13 in Gandhinagar in 2020.
- •GTI specifically targets the 'taking' aspect of wildlife exploitation.
Exam Tips
- •Understand the mandate and key initiatives of major international environmental conventions (CMS, CITES, CBD, Ramsar, UNFCCC).
- •Pay attention to the specific focus of new initiatives launched by these bodies.
- •Know the headquarters and key functions of important international organizations.