Jenifer Chatfield will lead the U.S. delegation to the CITES meeting in Geneva, Switzerland, starting next week [1].
The appointment raises concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest because Chatfield's family is involved in breeding wild animals for profit [1].
Chatfield serves as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks at the Department of the Interior [1]. Her role in the upcoming meeting involves representing the United States at the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, commonly known as CITES [1].
Multiple sources told Mongabay that the official's family ties to commercial breeding could overlap with the interests discussed during the global wildlife trade summit [1]. The CITES meeting is designed to regulate the international trade of endangered species to ensure their survival in the wild.
"Jenifer Chatfield, who serves as the Department of the Interior’s deputy assistant secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks..." a Mongabay reporter said [1].
The U.S. delegation's presence in Geneva is critical for coordinating international conservation efforts, and enforcement of trade bans. However, the reported connection to commercial breeding operations has drawn scrutiny from observers monitoring the integrity of the delegation [1].
“Jenifer Chatfield will lead the U.S. delegation to the CITES meeting in Geneva”
The appointment of a leader with ties to the commercial wildlife industry may complicate the U.S. position on strict trade regulations. Because CITES determines the legality of exporting and importing species, any perceived bias toward breeding profits could undermine the U.S. influence on conservation policy during the Geneva summit.
