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Lapse in Appropriations

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Wildlife Trafficking and Human Rights

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Wildlife trafficking--the illegal trade and poaching of wild animals--is a transnational crime that threatens security, economic prosperity, and conservation efforts, according to State. In recent years, media reports have alleged that park rangers trained by U.S.-funded partner organizations overseas have committed a range of human rights violations, including sexual assault and murder. GAO was asked to review human rights protections in U.S. efforts to combat wildlife trafficking.