As France wants to pursue a ban on importing hunting trophies, it is important to consider how such restrictions may affect the value of wildlife and incentives for conservation. When properly regulated and science-based, sustainable trophy hunting can contribute to conservation by creating economic value for wildlife, supporting habitat protection and contributing to local communities.

For communities living alongside wildlife, sustainable wildlife use can provide income and employment while creating incentives to maintain wildlife and natural habitats. The CIC is working through its network across Africa to ensure that the voices of range states, conservationists and local communities are heard in this debate. This work is taking place in parallel with a coalition of French organizations led by SCI France and the Europe Committee of SCI, who are spearheading the initiative against the proposed ban.

The CIC believes that decisions affecting wildlife conservation must consider scientific evidence, the value of wildlife and the perspectives of the countries and communities directly involved in conservation.