Nature Foundation and Ministry of Justice launch biosecurity initiative

GREAT BAY--The Nature Foundation St. Maarten and the Ministry of Justice have launched the Protection through Biosecurity Project, a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening St. Maarten’s ability to prevent the introduction of invasive species, combat illegal wildlife trade and improve the implementation of international biodiversity agreements.

The project will also support stronger enforcement of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, CITES, while improving coordination among key stakeholders responsible for protecting the country’s borders and natural environment.

“Invasive species and illegal wildlife trade are increasingly putting our marine life and local communities at risk. For me, protecting our borders also means protecting our natural environment from threats that can have lasting consequences for our island. This initiative reflects our commitment to protecting the very ecosystems and natural resources that we all depend on,” said Minister of Justice Nathalie Tackling.

Some of the most common species imported to and exported from St. Maarten that fall under CITES include queen conch, caviar and several bird species. CITES covers more than 36,000 species worldwide, making enforcement a specialized and demanding task.

As a small island and regional hub, St. Maarten handles high volumes of imported goods. This creates added enforcement challenges for local officers, especially in identifying protected species, detecting possible illegal wildlife trade and ensuring that proper procedures are followed.

“Biosecurity is about protecting St. Maarten’s people, economy, and natural resources from risks that often go unnoticed until significant damage has already occurred. By strengthening CITES implementation and improving coordination between local and regional stakeholders, we are investing in a more resilient future for the island,” said Nature Foundation Director Leslie Hickerson.

A key part of the 18-month project will be the introduction of a dedicated Biosecurity Officer within the Nature Foundation St. Maarten. The officer will work closely with local and regional enforcement agencies, provide technical support, coordinate training opportunities and support stronger regional action.

Through this added capacity, the project aims to improve detection, prevention and response efforts while building long-term capacity for biodiversity protection.

The Protection through Biosecurity Project is funded by BESTLIFE2030, Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services in Territories of European Overseas. BESTLIFE2030 is a grant mechanism focused on preserving and restoring biodiversity in the European Union’s outermost regions and Overseas Countries and Territories, which are home to rich biodiversity but also face serious climate change threats.

The project is co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are those of the authors only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CINEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.

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