Donkey Sanctuary teams up with Emirates to combat global skin trafficking

As part of its efforts against illegal wildlife trade, Emirates has established rigorous protocols such as screening and document verification. It also provides training for employees across cargo and passenger operations to identify smuggled wildlife.

The newly developed factsheet aims to equip the aviation industry with knowledge on combating the donkey skin trade. It outlines biosecurity risks associated with smuggling inadequately processed donkey skins alongside legitimate cargo like leather or textiles. The guidelines also address concealment methods and crime convergence involving organized networks linked to wildlife and drug trafficking.

Marianne Steele, CEO of The Donkey Sanctuary, emphasized the importance of this initiative: “This is another welcome step in the battle against the illegal trade in donkey skins within the transportation sector." She commended Emirates for setting new standards through their support and tightening trafficking policies.

Robert Fordree, Senior Vice President of Cargo Operations Worldwide at Emirates SkyCargo, stated: “We are proud to bring our expertise in both air logistics and the fight against illegal wildlife trafficking.” He expressed hope that working with similar partners will help protect biodiversity for future generations.