State & NGO Members
State members are pivotal to the identity and functions of the CIC. The only international hunting organisation composed of nation states, the CIC holds a distinct position in promoting sustainable hunting and wildlife conservation on a global scale. This unique composition allows the CIC to engage in high-level discussions and decision-making processes which shape international policies on wildlife management and sustainable use.
State members bring authoritative perspectives and resources to the table. This enables the CIC to function as a credible and influential advisor to global conventions and treaties such as CITES and the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The involvement of this growing number of states ensures that the principles of sustainable use are integrated into international environmental policies, this in turn benefits ecosystems and biodiversity around the world.
How State Membership Benefits CIC and Its Members
Enhanced Influence and Advocacy:
The participation of state members grants the CIC a higher degree of legitimacy and influence within international fora. This enables the organisation to effectively advocate for the interests of hunting communities and sustainable use practices at global conventions and policy meetings.
Green Diplomacy and Local Impact:
State members facilitate a two-way communication between international policy arenas and local contexts. This “green diplomacy” bridges the gap between global strategies and national or local implementation, ensuring that sustainable hunting practices are appropriately tailored and applied within different countries.
Collaborative Platform for Knowledge Exchange:
Annual meetings and independent sessions for state members provide an exclusive platform for representatives to exchange experiences and discuss sensitive topics without the presence of domestic hunting associations. This fosters a collaborative environment for addressing common challenges and sharing best practices.
Support Against Anti-Hunting Movements:
In light of increasing attacks against hunting and hunters, state membership strengthens the CIC’s ability to defend sustainable hunting practices. The organisation offers a unified platform to counter misinformation and advocate for the rights of hunters, ensuring that their contributions to conservation are recognised and valued.
Access to Expertise and Innovation:
The CIC’s status as a respected advisory body means that state members can leverage its extensive expertise in wildlife conservation. This access to knowledge and innovative solutions aids in addressing practical wildlife management issues and influencing policy decisions at all levels.
The Role and Contributions of NGO Members
Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) form a vital part of the CIC’s membership, complementing the contributions of state members. These organisations, which include national and international NGOs, bring diverse perspectives and specialised knowledge that enrich the CIC’s efforts in promoting sustainable use.
- Diverse Representation and Voting Rights:
- NGOs have a significant role within the CIC’s governance structure, with each organisation having one representative and one vote in the General Assembly. This inclusive approach ensures that the views of a wide range of stakeholders are considered in decision-making processes.
- Grassroots Engagement and Local Advocacy:
- NGO members often operate at grassroots levels, providing essential insights into local conservation challenges and community dynamics. Their involvement enhances the CIC’s ability to implement sustainable use principles effectively at the local level.
- Educational and Awareness-Raising Activities:
- NGOs contribute to the CIC’s mission by organising and participating in symposia, workshops, and public events. These activities raise awareness about the importance of sustainable hunting and the role of hunters in maintaining healthy ecosystems.
- Strengthening International Partnerships:
- The presence of NGOs within the CIC fosters collaboration with other conservation entities and international organisations. This network of partnerships amplifies the CIC’s impact and supports global efforts to promote biodiversity and sustainable resource use.
Examples of State Members and NGOs
State Members:
- Austria: Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Regions and Tourism
- Finland: Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry
- Namibia: Ministry of Environment, Forestry, and Tourism
- Spain: Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food
NGO Members:
- European Landowners Organisation (ELO): Belgium
- Wild Sheep Foundation: USA
- Finnish Bowhunting Association: Finland
- Royal Saint-Hubert Club of Belgium (RSHCB): Belgium
These examples illustrate the wide-ranging and diverse membership that contributes to the CIC’s strength and effectiveness in advocating for sustainable hunting and wildlife conservation.
For a detailed listing of all state and NGO members, please refer to the comprehensive membership directory available on our website. This directory showcases the breadth of our membership and the collective commitment to sustainable use and conservation that defines the CIC.
In summary, the combination of state and NGO members makes the CIC a robust and unique organisation dedicated to sustainable wildlife management. Their collective efforts ensure that the principles of sustainable use are upheld and that the voices of hunters and conservationists are heard on the global stage, ultimately benefiting both wildlife and human communities.