Illegal Logging as Organized Crime: Civil Society Organizations Develop Approaches to Counter It

On April 22–23, 2026, a one-and-a-half-day seminar was held for representatives of civil society organizations and the media, dedicated to developing joint approaches to improving the effectiveness of law enforcement in combating illegal logging as a form of organized crime.

The event brought together environmental NGOs from western regions of Ukraine, national experts, investigative journalists, and media representatives. Participants analyzed illegal logging schemes, key actors and their powers, and assessed the current state of cooperation between CSOs, the media, and law enforcement agencies.

The focus of the work was identifying practical entry points for more effective engagement of civil society and the media. Participants formulated specific cooperation goals and developed initial joint action plans, including in the areas of advocacy, investigations, and information sharing.

One concrete outcome was the identification of the problem of limited access to environmentally sensitive information — including forest maps, forest inventory descriptions, and allotment materials — and the development of proposals to address it. Participants proposed initiating amendments to Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine resolutions regarding open access to information about forest users and forest management materials, as well as the introduction of regular public reporting by directors of state forestry enterprises and the publication of audit results. In addition, the need for amendments to the Forest Code of Ukraine and increased data collection under Article 238 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine was discussed.

The seminar also contributed to strengthening professional connections and trust among participants, which is an important prerequisite for a systemic response to environmental crimes.

The event is organized by the EUAM Ukraine in cooperation with ForestCom and EPL. NGO «ForestCom» operates with the support of the Askold and Dir Fund, administered by ISAR Ednannia as part of the Strong Civil Society of Ukraine – a Driver towards Reforms and Democracy project, funded by Norway and Sweden.