Resilience Unveiled: Lessons from the Illegal Wildlife Trade During COVID-19 Lockdowns

Speaker: Dr. Annette Hübschle

Location: Room 325, River Road or Zoom: https://umd.zoom.us/my/meredithgore

Date: Monday, Nov 13, 2023

Time: 1:00PM (US Eastern Standard Time)

Title: "Resilience Unveiled: Lessons from the Illegal Wildlife Trade during COVID-19 Lockdowns”

Abstract: Drawing from a comprehensive study spanning South Africa, Tanzania, and Zambia, this talk will delve into the unexpected resilience, adaptability, and innovation demonstrated by wildlife poachers and traffickers amidst the disruptions of COVID-19 lockdowns. By utilizing the 'Frictions and Flows' framework, I'll explore how these criminal actors navigate exogenous shocks, offering insightful parallels for licit industries facing global environmental challenges. Join us as we uncover the strategies that enable illicit economies to thrive in turbulent times, emphasizing that while the activities are illegal, the lessons on resilience are universal. Through this exploration, we aim to shed light on potential strategies for enhancing the resilience of legal economies in the face of unforeseen challenges.”