The Impact of Bolsonaro's Gun Policy on Illegal Hunting
Former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro's statement, "I want everyone armed!", during a cabinet meeting in May 2020, marked the fulfillment of a campaign promise made in 2018. In this meeting, he demanded that his ministers sign a decree that increased the limit on civilian ammunition purchases. During his campaign and term, Bolsonaro promoted and implemented a pro-gun agenda with a direct impact on the illegal hunting of wildlife, as shown by the data.
According to 2023 data compiled by the non-profit institutes Igarapé and Sou da Paz, the number of firearms in private collections held by Brazilian civilians and military nearly doubled to 3 million between 2019 and 2022 — that is, during the Bolsonaro administration. In 2018, this number was only 1.3 million, with almost half belonging to the military.
Why This Matters
The policy implemented under Bolsonaro significantly facilitated access to firearms, particularly for a group known in Brazil as CACs — an acronym for hunters, sports shooters, and collectors. According to research, CACs purchased 59,000 firearms in 2018. By 2022, this number jumped to 430,000. In the same period, there was a significant increase in illegal hunting, which has severe implications for biodiversity conservation in Brazil.
The Scientific Mechanism Behind Illegal Hunting
Illegal hunting is a complex problem that involves economic, social, and environmental factors. Easy access to firearms is one of the main factors that contribute to illegal hunting, as it allows more people to practice hunting without the proper restrictions and regulations. Additionally, the lack of enforcement and application of environmental laws also contributes to the perpetuation of illegal hunting.
Broader Context
Illegal hunting is a global problem that affects many countries, especially those with high biodiversity. In Brazil, illegal hunting is a serious problem that affects many animal species, including some that are extinct. Bolsonaro's gun policy is just one of many factors that contribute to illegal hunting in Brazil, but it is an example of how government policies can have a significant impact on biodiversity conservation.
What Happens Next
It is essential that the Brazilian government takes measures to reverse Bolsonaro's gun policy and implement more effective measures to combat illegal hunting. This may include implementing stricter laws to control the possession and use of firearms, as well as creating education and awareness programs to prevent illegal hunting. Additionally, it is crucial that the international community supports Brazil's efforts to protect its biodiversity and combat illegal hunting.
Consequences and Challenges
Illegal hunting has severe consequences for biodiversity and ecosystems, including species loss, habitat degradation, and loss of ecosystem services. Additionally, illegal hunting also has negative impacts on human health and the economy, especially in rural communities that depend on hunting for their subsistence. Therefore, it is essential that urgent measures are taken to combat illegal hunting and protect Brazil's biodiversity.
Source / Reference
This article was originally published on Mongabay.