Global prosecutor workshop explores civil and criminal strategies for wildlife restoration

Marsya M Handayani presents “Conservation Litigation: Criminal and Civil Law Strategy for Wildlife Restoration

28 June 2024, Manado - Marsya M Handayani, a researcher at the Indonesian Center for Environmental Law, gave a presentation this week on "Conservation Litigation: Criminal and Civil Law Strategy for Wildlife Restoration" at the global prosecutor workshop, "Wildlife Trafficking and Money Laundering Workshop," organized by the United State Department of Justice, Criminal Division, Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance and Training (OPDAT) in Manado, North Sulawesi.

Ms. Handayani highlighted the drive to mainstream the concept of conservation litigation in Indonesia's fight against wildlife crimes, unveiling innovative remedies and strategic pathways for maximum impact. Her insights sparked critical discussions among prosecutors from Indonesia and the Philippines, igniting a new era of regional cooperation in safeguarding our precious wildlife resources.

Conservation-Litigation.org is a burgeoning global movement aimed at empowering victims of wildlife crime with justice and a voice. Simply punishing offenders with fines or jail time is insufficient; once lost, wildlife cannot be revived. Inspired by the polluter pays principle, our approach advocates for restorative justice—rehabilitating habitats to ensure both species and population survival. With successful court precedents in several nations, replicating these victories worldwide is imperative.

Let's rally behind this cause and diligently oversee the execution of restoration mandates, aiming for a planet where every species flourishes. Together, we can make a profound difference in safeguarding our natural heritage for generations to come