Which legal framework regulates international trade in endangered species?

The correct answer is CITES, which stands for the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. This legal framework specifically aims to ensure that international trade in wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival. Established in 1975, CITES provides a framework for countries to regulate the export, import, and re-export of species listed in its appendices, which categorize species based on the level of protection they require.

CITES utilizes a system of permits to monitor and control trade, placing obligations on member countries to comply with its provisions, thereby promoting sustainable practices and conservation efforts globally. The regulation not only helps in protecting threatened species but also raises awareness and encourages collaboration between nations to enforce these protections.

Other entities mentioned, such as UNESCO and UNEP, focus on broader environmental concerns and cultural heritage, while the IUCN, although instrumental in assessing species conservation status, does not have regulatory authority for trade like CITES does. Thus, CITES is distinct and crucial for addressing the specific challenges related to the international trade of endangered species.