MEXICO CITY— Humane World for Animals Mexico, formerly known as Humane Society International Mexico, and Mexico’s Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (PROFEPA), the agency responsible for the nation’s environmental laws and regulations, have signed a collaboration agreement to enhance animal protection and welfare efforts across the country. This partnership will help strengthen enforcement of wildlife conservation laws while promoting biodiversity conservation and sustainability.
Mexico is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world, home to a vast array of unique ecosystems and species found nowhere else on the planet. From jaguars in its tropical rainforests to sea turtles along its coasts, Mexico’s rich natural heritage is a source of global ecological value. However, this biodiversity is under serious threat from the illegal wildlife trade and other human activities.
Wild animal trafficking in particular is a growing problem in Mexico, driven by national and international demand for exotic pets, traditional medicines, and luxury goods. This illicit activity not only endangers species but also undermines conservation efforts and harms local communities that depend on healthy ecosystems. Addressing this challenge is crucial to preserving Mexico’s extraordinary wildlife for future generations.
“The illegal trafficking of wildlife has an immediate impact on the well-being and reproductive capacity of the populations from which the specimens are taken, adding to the enormous suffering and violence faced by the extracted individuals, generally the young. Combating this crime is a priority for Profepa, and that is why we are very pleased to form alliances and collaborations like this one with Humane World for Animals Mexico, with which we will strengthen our actions and enhance our outreach and public awareness efforts” stated Attorney General Mariana Boy Tamborrell.
Through joint efforts, Humane World for Animals Mexico and PROFEPA will bolster law enforcement efforts against wildlife trafficking, promote public awareness campaigns, provide specialized training to authorities, support legal reforms, and leverage technology to improve reporting and enforcement of regulations.
Antón Aguilar, executive director, Humane World for Animals Mexico, stated: "PROFEPA is in an extraordinary position to protect wildlife and prevent crimes against the country’s biodiversity. We are thrilled to provide our expertise to support their work to effectively identify, respond to and care for wild animals caught in the crosshairs of illicit trade across Mexico. We thank them for their strong commitment to animal protection and supporting the education programs necessary for a more humane world.”
The agreement will strengthen collaboration with authorities to enhance the enforcement of wildlife protection laws and ensure their proper implementation. It includes institutional support and tailored training for law enforcement personnel in the detection, investigation, and prosecution of wildlife crimes.
Humane World for Animals Mexico extends its gratitude to Mariana Boy Tamborrell, who heads PROFEPA, for partnering in the organization’s mission and reinforcing her commitment to the protection of animals throughout the country.
