Increased recognition of the potential consequences of wildlife trafficking has caused some
observers and policymakers to question the efficacy of existing U.S. and international responses
and consider new options for addressing the problem. In November 2012, for example, thenSecretary
of State Hillary Clinton announced the beginning of a revitalized effort to combat
international wildlife trafficking. In July 2013, President Barack Obama issued Executive Order
13648 on Combating Wildlife Trafficking. The Executive Order identified poaching of protected
species and the illegal trade in wildlife and their derivative parts and products as an escalating
international crisis that is in the national interest of the United States to combat.