Why BANNING Trophy Hunting Could Devastate African Wildlife

Trophy hunting is a controversial topic, but as Dr. Francis Vorhies explains in this video, banning trophy hunting imports could actually harm conservation efforts. The UK’s new Labour government supports such a ban, but this well-intentioned move may have unintended consequences. Dr. Vorhies, Director of the African Wildlife Economy Institute, breaks down how properly managed trophy hunting can support wildlife conservation by generating revenues for habitat protection and anti-poaching efforts, while also creating incentives to protect wildlife and support local communities.

The video highlights that most hunting trophies come from countries with abundant and stable populations of the hunted species. It also emphasises the importance of international agreements like CITES, which create strict rules for the sustainable export and import of hunting trophies. Dr. Vorhies argues that a UK ban on trophy imports would override the wishes of African countries who are signatories to these agreements and whose economies and conservation efforts benefit directly from trophy hunting.

For a more in-depth look at this complex issue, check out the Institute of Economic Affairs’ new publication, Elephant in the Room: Why a trophy hunting ban would hurt conservation and development by Dr. Francis Vorhies. This analysis explores the potential negative impacts of a trophy hunting ban on both wildlife conservation and rural African communities. View the full publication at insider.iea.org.uk and join the conversation about sustainable wildlife management practices that benefit both animals and people.