The IKBs 3 project, titled Safe Flyways: Tackling the Illegal Killing of Birds, is a three-year initiative funded by Foundation Hans Wilsdorf. Covering over 23 countries in the Mediterranean, the project aims to reduce illegal bird killing by 50% in selected areas. In Lebanon, the project focuses on West Bekaa, Egbe-Keserwan, and Bunnieh-North Lebanon.
To ensure effective collaboration and exchange of best practices, the project holds semi-annual partner meetings. On February 27, 2025, a regional all-partner meeting was held online, bringing together representatives from various participating organizations.
During this meeting, SPNL (Society for the Protection of Nature in Lebanon), represented by Bassima Khatib, presented Lebanon’s efforts in mitigating illegal bird killings, highlighting the organization’s outreach efforts as a success story. SPNL’s presentation emphasized the progress made in law enforcement partnerships, national awareness campaigns, and innovative alternative activities for hunters.
SPNL’s Key Achievements in the Fight Against IKBs
🔹 Policy & Law Enforcement: SPNL has actively engaged with Internal Security Forces (ISF) to support anti-poaching efforts, ensuring stricter enforcement of hunting laws. This collaboration has led to regular patrols, documented violations, and increased prosecutions of illegal hunting activities.
🔹 Awareness & Education: SPNL has conducted training sessions for rangers, law enforcement officers, and youth, as well as awareness campaigns targeting hunters. The focus has been on educating communities about sustainable hunting practices and the importance of protecting migratory birds.
🔹 Innovative Solutions: The organization has promoted alternative hobbies for hunters, such as wildlife photography, responsible hunting practices, and conservation-focused activities, to reduce the reliance on illegal bird shooting.
🔹 Regional Collaboration: Beyond Lebanon, SPNL’s work extends to Syria and Palestine, where similar outreach and enforcement efforts are being implemented. The organization shared insights into how regional partnerships can enhance the fight against IKBs.
The feedback from project partners was highly positive, acknowledging SPNL’s significant contributions to reducing illegal bird killings in Lebanon. The success of these outreach efforts serves as a model for other countries in the Mediterranean region.
For more details, refer to SPNL’s presentation on outreach efforts.
