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Tackling forest crime in West Africa

Training of trainers curriculum

Year of publication 2025

Place of publication Rome, Italy ;

Pages 104 p.

Author Chasi, R.M.;

Publisher FAO ;

Product type Book (stand-alone)

ISBN 978-92-5-139786-2

To cite or share https://doi.org/10.4060/cd5168en

Synopsis (short abstract) This publication presents a comprehensive training of trainers curriculum designed to strengthen the capacity of forestry enforcement officers in West Africa to effectively combat forest crime. Developed under the regional project “Global Transformation of Forests for People and Climate: A Focus on West Africa”, the curriculum addresses key challenges identified in seven West African countries through legal assessments, stakeholder interviews, and literature reviews.Structured into four core modules, the curriculum covers: (1) an overview of forest crimes and their socioeconomic and environmental impacts; (2) the role of international legal frameworks, with a focus on the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES); (3) investigative techniques and evidence gathering; and (4) transboundary cooperation and lessons learned from regional implementation.The curriculum emphasizes participatory learning and includes case studies, exercises, and discussion prompts to encourage engagement and contextual adaptation. It integrates the use of innovative forest monitoring tools and provides guidance on aligning national legislation with international obligations. Trainers are equipped to tailor content to local realities, facilitate interactive sessions, and promote institutional coordination among enforcement bodies.This resource aims to foster more consistent, informed, and cooperative responses to forest crime in West Africa, contributing to stronger legal frameworks, improved governance, and the protection of forest ecosystems and communities dependent on them.

Cite this content as:

Chasi, R.M. 2025. Tackling forest crime in West Africa – Training of trainers curriculum. Rome, FAO.

https://doi.org/10.4060/cd5168en

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Language English

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