Armenia debates wild animal captivity laws before COP17

PanARMENIAN.Net - A professional discussion initiated by Hovhannes Martirosyan, head of Armenia’s Inspection Body for Environment and Subsoil, was held today to address problems related to the keeping of wild animals in captivity or semi-captivity without the proper permits, and to plan future actions.

The discussion took place in the context of addressing issues raised during a committee session formed to organize and host the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the Convention on Biological Diversity.

The participants reviewed the legal vulnerabilities linked to unauthorized wildlife captivity, suggested improvements to control mechanisms, and discussed the need for legislative amendments. The focus was on clarifying the legal status of animals, standardizing the permit issuance and oversight process, and establishing liability for violations.

Participants emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation among state institutions, the private sector, and academic institutions to shape effective sectoral policy. According to them, this collaboration will not only improve wild animal welfare but also support biodiversity protection and alignment with international standards.

COP17 will be held in Armenia in 2026.