The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) has recently marked its 50th anniversary with the landmark 20th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties (CoP20) in Samarkand. Hosts Ngoc Anh Nguyen and Koh Jieh Long were joined by Dr. Mark Jones, Head of Policy at the Born Free Foundation and a CITES veteran, to break down the pivotal outcomes. In this episode, we explore how CITES is evolving to address modern challenges, including the record-setting workload of CoP20, the shift to online and exotic pet trade in Asia, and the imperative for digitalization through CITES e-permits and traceability systems. Dr. Jones shares insights on the critical need for national policy reforms in Asian countries, greater international cooperation with bodies like the Quadripartite Collaboration for One Health, and the complex issues of animal repatriation and welfare for seized live animals. For summary of key developments, please check out: https://cites.org/eng/cop/20/summary-records

In this special episode, we take you behind the scenes of Asia Farm Animal Day (AFAD) — the region’s leading gathering for farmed animal advocates — to hear directly from three inspiring voices representing India, Indonesia, and Nepal.

Join us as they share their experiences, key learnings, and personal takeaways from the conference. From building connections across borders to discovering new strategies for impact, this conversation unpacks how AFAD serves as a powerful platform for collaboration, growth, and renewed motivation within Asia’s farmed animal movement.

Tune in for heartfelt reflections, practical insights, and a glimpse into how regional advocates are shaping a more compassionate future for animals.

Welcome to the "Shelter Fatigue" Podcast Series by the Dog and Cat Coalition (DACC)! Join Cica, Lead Coordinator of DACC, and Henna Pekko, Managing Director of Rescue P.A.W.S. Thailand, as they discuss the pressure shelters face when it comes to making decisions and why it’s okay to acknowledge our limits. This conversation is a reminder that no shelter or rescuer is facing these challenges alone, we are in this together.