Challenges in International Environmental Law and Regional Cooperation

In many African countries, where populations often depend very directly on natural resources, environmental protection competes with development needs that are driven by population pressure. Armed conflicts pose a major challenge to nature conservation and the protection of natural resources in several regions of sub-Saharan Africa. Furthermore, international environmental law faces implementation challenges in certain states, particularly in Africa, due to a lack of expertise in this area. With regard to the legal response to the challenge posed by environmental degradation in Africa, there has been a proliferation of legislation aimed at promoting nature conservation and the protection of natural resources and at safeguarding certain sites or areas at the national level; however, national efforts alone cannot safeguard the environment. Hence the need for regional cooperation, which is highly beneficial in promoting a policy of institutional integration in the field of the environment for Africa.