Experiences of the Hungarian customs authority in international illegal wildlife trafficking

Abstract

In this paper, we examine how Hungarian customs officers perceive the role of Hungarian customs authority and its effectiveness in international illegal wildlife trafficking. We aim to identify the characteristics of international illegal wildlife trade, which also affects Hungary, and to evaluate the experience of customs officers. Most of these custom officers encounter such crimes of international nature. By assessing and publishing their experience one can take more effective action in the future. This approach allows to identify the methods of offense, the reasons of offense, and the difficulties faced by the custom authorities. To explore this, we conducted a questionnaire survey of 27 questions addressed to many members of the target group. The survey contained closed questions and, to a lesser extent, open-ended questions, allowing to learn both their objective experience and subjective opinions. Prior to the survey, we mapped out which units of the National Tax and Customs Administration would encounter most often international illegal wildlife trafficking, and then compiled the relevant issues that may allow effective action against this kind of incident. By devising the questionnaire, our aim was to assess how frequent illegal wildlife trafficking in Hungary is, what routes and hiding methods are typical, which species are affected, and what measures are needed to increase efficiency of combating trafficking. The questionnaire was completed by 202 experts. Results show that in course of their work most respondents (64%) have met International Wildlife Trafficking monthly. According to their experience, attempts are being made to smuggle various endangered animal and plant species into the country, mainly at the Liszt Ferenc International Airport in Budapest. According to respondents, in most cases, international networks may be behind the smuggling activity. Respondents believe that the effectiveness of combating wildlife trafficking can be improved by more frequent and thorough inspections, higher priority given to such cases, increased penalties, and special training of customs officers. Based on received answers, the paper highlights the phenomena and problems that generally occur globally in the inter-regional trade of illegal wildlife. These can be addressed by effective action of law enforcement officers and customs authorities. The fight against illegal trade in protected animal and plant species is considered high priority, as it causes loss of biodiversity and damage of the ecological balance, and it jeopardizes our sustainable future.