The South-West Asia Illegal Taking of Birds Task Force (SWAITBT) is a regional initiative established under the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) to tackle illegal hunting, taking, and trade of migratory birds across South-West Asia. The Task Force supports participating countries to strengthen and harmonize legal frameworks, improve enforcement responses, and increase cross-border cooperation among relevant authorities. It also promotes a coordinated, science-based understanding of the scale and drivers of illegal bird taking and encourages practical measures that can be implemented nationally and collaboratively at regional level. Through awareness-raising, capacity building, and shared monitoring approaches, SWAITBT aims to reduce threats along key flyways and contribute to the long-term conservation of migratory bird populations.
Key facts
- Country/Area: South-West Asia (regional) — Bahrain, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Yemen (plus additional participating countries may be involved)
- Activity type: Conservation; Outreach/Awareness; Citizen science; Regional coordination; Law enforcement cooperation; Research/analysis
- Themes: Migratory birds; Education & Outreach; Protection; International/regional cooperation; Law enforcement
- Target species/group: Migratory birds affected by illegal hunting, taking, and trade
- Implementing organization: CMS (Convention on Migratory Species)
- Timeline: Not specified (ongoing)
- Donor/Budget: The National Center for Wildlife (NCW) (amount not specified)
Key outcomes / expected outputs
- Improved regional cooperation to address illegal hunting, taking, and trade of migratory birds
- Strengthened and better-aligned national policies and legal frameworks
- Enhanced enforcement capacity and coordination among agencies
- Regional analysis and evidence base to inform targeted action
- A more coordinated approach to protecting key flyways and migratory birds
Links
Contact
- Focal point: Sidi Imad Cherkaoui (CMS)
- Email: imad.cherkaoui@cms.int
Additional contact: ivan.ramirez@un.org