Mitigation of Wildlife Crime

A coordinated, multi-country response built on science, law and enforcemen

Mitigation of wildlife crime is complex and deeply entrenched. To dismantle it, we must train and connect the right people, strengthen legal pathways, and ensure faster, smarter responses. That is exactly what the WildLIFE Crime Academy is here to do.

We are working across nine countries Europe, the Caucasus and North Africa to equip national authorities with the tools, skills, and networks to detect, investigate, and prosecute wildlife crime. Our mitigation approach integrates law enforcement, forensic science, environmental protection, and judicial accountability.

Targeted Training for Enforcement Professionals

At the heart of our work is the Wildlife Crime Academy—a unique, three-level training programme based in Spain. It’s designed for a broad mix of professionals, including:

WildLIFE Crime Academy
Photo © VCF

Police officers and environmental inspectors

Prosecutors and members of the judiciary

Forensic scientists and toxicologists

Conservationists and veterinarians

Through theory sessions, real case studies and hands-on crime scenario training, we are preparing over 100 core professionals who will then train 1,000+ colleagues across their home countries. This ripple effect is key to scaling impact on the ground.

National Roadmaps and Forensic Protocols

Each partner country will develop and adopt a tailored national roadmap, along with shared investigation protocols that will:

Improve coordination across ministries and enforcement agencies

Standardize evidence collection and case documentation

Strengthen legal accountability and follow-through in court

National roadmaps & Protocols
Photo © Eleni Karatzia/VCF

Through theory sessions, real case studies and hands-on crime scenario training, we are preparing over 100 core professionals who will then train 1,000+ colleagues across their home countries. This ripple effect is key to scaling impact on the ground.

Real-Time Knowledge Sharing Across Borders

We are building a secure, online knowledge exchange platform for up to 200 approved members of our WildLIFE Crime Academy network. This space will enable users to:

Photo © Iñigo Fajardo

Access training materials

Share intelligence and field data

Discuss cases, risks and interventions in real time

By creating space for ongoing communication, we are fostering trust, collaboration and knowledge exchange among professionals who might never have had the chance to work together.

Strengthening International Enforcement Networks

Our initiative connects over 800 professionals across law enforcement, conservation, forensics and justice. This growing transnational network is designed to:

Support joint investigations and surveillance

Enable fast, secure information sharing

Build legal cooperation across jurisdictions

Photo © Eleni Karatzia/VCF

Wildlife crime doesn’t stop at borders – so neither should our response.

Smarter Tools for Early Detection and Response

Smarter Tools for Early Detection and Response:

Photo © David Rodrigues

GPS tracking of high-risk species to identify unusual movements or sudden deaths

A mobile reporting app that helps field teams respond instantly to poisoning events

These tools not only prevent mass mortality events but also enables professionals to improve their future conservation and enforcement responses.

The fight against wildlife crime is long-term and it demands expertise, coordination and persistence. The WildLIFE Crime Academy is building the foundation for lasting impact, by training professionals, connecting systems and ensuring that those who commit wildlife crimes are held accountable.

Learn more about the project: