Les gardiens de la vie sauvage : avec ceux qui se battent pour les éléphants

The spread of invasive alien species (IAS) is creating complex and far-reaching challenges that threaten both the natural biological riches of the earth and the well being of its citizens. Summarising key findings of the Phase I Synthesis Conference held in September 2000 in Cape Town, Republic of South Africa, this publication presents ten strategic responses that address how to mitigate the threats of IAS. Directed toward the decision-makers whose policies and practices are affecting the movement of species around the world, this strategy strives to provide a resource to increase awareness and provide policy advice.

This publication deals in two distinct parts with the status of our natural resources on the high-seas (approximately 50 per cent of the Earth's surface) which contain open-access common resources. Part 1 identifies and reviews a certain number of relatively discrete or localised geographic features/habitats/biological communities that have particular scientific, societal or economic interest. The report assesses the existing or potential threats to them, and proceeds to qualify their potential value as High-Seas Marine Protected Areas. Part 2 explores some of the legal, political and institutional issues relevant to the possible establishment of Marine Protected Areas.

The symposium was convened to assess experience at integrating developmnet and conservation concerns within natural resource management initiatives, and draw out lessons for policy-makers, institutional development and capacity building. It includes a selection of papers from across English- and French-speaking Africa.