South-West Asia Illegal Taking of Birds Task Force (SWAITBT)

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 - **Target species/group:** Migratory birds affected by illegal hunting, taking, and trade - **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 - **Implementing organization:** CMS (Convention on Migratory Species) - **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