Question

The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) passed a resolution to protect rhinoceroses in the wild. Rhinoceroses have been hunted to the brink of extinction because their horns, which are made of simple keratin, are considered an aphrodisiac and a powerful drug in some cultures. Why does the protection of rhinoceroses require an international agreement?

a. The rhinoceroses are hunted in their native countries, but the trade crosses borders.
b. The use of rhinoceros’ horns as an aphrodisiac has showed various negative effects internationally.
c. The hunters from different countries travel to the native country to hunt for rhinoceroses.
d. Their demand is greater in foreign countries as compared to their native countries.

Answer 1

The CITES treaty provides a framework to restrict international trade of endangered species, which is essential for preventing poaching and conserving biodiversity. The correct answer is option a.

Step-by-step explanation:

The protection of rhinoceroses requires an international agreement because the issues contributing to their endangerment extend beyond local contexts. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) aims to address this by rendering the international trade of rhino horns illegal, thereby reducing poaching incentives and protecting rhinoceros populations.

However, these efforts need multinational cooperation due to the transnational nature of wildlife trafficking networks that are driven by demand in countries far from where rhinos are native. Additionally, legislation such as CITES is crucial because it provides a legal framework for preventing listed species like rhinoceroses from being transported across borders.

Despite the establishment of game preserves and national parks that create safe havens for rhinos, poaching thrives because of high demand in the illegal wildlife trade market—worth hundreds of millions of dollars. Comprehensive international engagement ensures that laws are reinforced and harmonized across borders to effectively combat this illegal trade and its impacts on endangered species.