Challenges in Managing Protected Areas in Zones of Armed Conflict

Virunga National Park is the oldest national park in Africa. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, it is characterized by the diversity of its habitats and animal and plant species, the best known of which is the mountain gorilla. Designated a World Heritage Site in Danger in 1995, it has been embroiled in armed conflicts for two decades, the most recent of which was the M23 war between 2012 and 2013. This study examines the park’s management over a four-year period from 2011 to 2014, comparing illicit activities observed during periods of calm and periods of unrest. During periods of unrest, an increase in illicit activities was observed, notably the illegal occupation of the park, deforestation, poaching, and illegal fishing. However, an increase in the populations of large wildlife, such as hippos and mountain gorillas, was observed despite the periods of unrest. This study serves as a warning aimed specifically at nature lovers, nature conservation organizations, students and researchers, protected area staff and managers, and the civil and military authorities responsible for security.