NABR Celebrates CITES Committee's Decision Supporting Ethical Trade in Cambodia's Long-Tailed Macaques
The National Association for Biomedical Research (NABR) has expressed strong approval for the CITES Standing Committee’s recent determination to refrain from instituting a trade suspension on Cambodia's long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis). This endorsement marks a pivotal stance against a wave of misinformation fostered by activist groups that promote ill-founded scientific claims rather than evidence-based policies. The committee’s deliberation, underscored by an emphasis on a thorough and transparent review process, is a significant triumph for both biomedicine and public health.
During the committee meeting held in Geneva, Switzerland, an essential point of concern arose regarding the trade restrictions that were considered. The committee heard strong arguments against an immediate trade halt, primarily citing Japan’s formal request to postpone any action until the next CITES assembly. Other nations, including Canada and the United States, rallied behind Japan, advocating for a comprehensive assessment of newly submitted data from Cambodia.
One of the critical voices in the discussions was NABR President Matthew R. Bailey, who articulated the necessity of using long-tailed macaques in biomedical research that addresses life-threatening health issues such as infectious diseases and cancer. "Biomedicine relies on the availability of long-tailed macaques to conduct life-saving research," Bailey stated, emphasizing the importance of these animals in advancing crucial medical treatments.
The response from the CITES Standing Committee was resounding: not one country endorsed the Secretariat's proposal for a trade suspension. Instead, a collaborative effort emerged among multiple nations to support a fact-based review of the situation. With this decision, the CITES Secretariat is mandated to pursue a detailed exploration of the circumstances surrounding Cambodia’s macaque exports and to establish a formal delegation to the region, ensuring that considerations regarding ethical wildlife trade continue to respect scientific underpinnings.
Moreover, this decision aligns with the ongoing review by the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee, providing a necessary delay to complete their evaluation of the controversies surrounding the trade of long-tailed macaques.
The overall outcome is being hailed not only as a victory for scientific integrity but also as a crucial step toward upholding public health standards globally. This resolution protects the interests of biomedical research while promoting a more balanced and informed discussion surrounding wildlife trade policies. NABR is committed to continuing its advocacy for science-based regulations that facilitate ethical animal usage in research. Bailey concludes, "We will persist in collaborating with global partners to ensure that wildlife trade decisions remain grounded in science, prioritize transparency, and uphold the principles of responsible research practices aiming at biomedical advancements."
Founded in 1979, NABR serves as a vital organization advocating for the humane and responsible use of animals in biomedical research and testing. As a 501(c)(6) non-profit, NABR represents over 340 members, including academic institutions, pharmaceutical firms, and professional societies dedicated to advancing animal and human health globally. To learn more about NABR's initiatives and impact, visit www.nabr.org.
During the committee meeting held in Geneva, Switzerland, an essential point of concern arose regarding the trade restrictions that were considered. The committee heard strong arguments against an immediate trade halt, primarily citing Japan’s formal request to postpone any action until the next CITES assembly. Other nations, including Canada and the United States, rallied behind Japan, advocating for a comprehensive assessment of newly submitted data from Cambodia.
One of the critical voices in the discussions was NABR President Matthew R. Bailey, who articulated the necessity of using long-tailed macaques in biomedical research that addresses life-threatening health issues such as infectious diseases and cancer. "Biomedicine relies on the availability of long-tailed macaques to conduct life-saving research," Bailey stated, emphasizing the importance of these animals in advancing crucial medical treatments.
The response from the CITES Standing Committee was resounding: not one country endorsed the Secretariat's proposal for a trade suspension. Instead, a collaborative effort emerged among multiple nations to support a fact-based review of the situation. With this decision, the CITES Secretariat is mandated to pursue a detailed exploration of the circumstances surrounding Cambodia’s macaque exports and to establish a formal delegation to the region, ensuring that considerations regarding ethical wildlife trade continue to respect scientific underpinnings.
Moreover, this decision aligns with the ongoing review by the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee, providing a necessary delay to complete their evaluation of the controversies surrounding the trade of long-tailed macaques.
The overall outcome is being hailed not only as a victory for scientific integrity but also as a crucial step toward upholding public health standards globally. This resolution protects the interests of biomedical research while promoting a more balanced and informed discussion surrounding wildlife trade policies. NABR is committed to continuing its advocacy for science-based regulations that facilitate ethical animal usage in research. Bailey concludes, "We will persist in collaborating with global partners to ensure that wildlife trade decisions remain grounded in science, prioritize transparency, and uphold the principles of responsible research practices aiming at biomedical advancements."
Founded in 1979, NABR serves as a vital organization advocating for the humane and responsible use of animals in biomedical research and testing. As a 501(c)(6) non-profit, NABR represents over 340 members, including academic institutions, pharmaceutical firms, and professional societies dedicated to advancing animal and human health globally. To learn more about NABR's initiatives and impact, visit www.nabr.org.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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