Judiciary independence: Why should conservation ecologists care?

Abstract

We discuss the impact of democratic political governance systems on ecological and conservation research, education, and practice, focusing on radical proposed changes to the judicial system in Israel. This judicial reform has already begun to restrict academic freedom and environmental laws, adversely affecting regulatory actions. We are concerned about the weakening enforcement of environmental laws, increased power to polluting industries, future defunding of ecological research and nature conservation programs, reduced cross-border collaborations in ecological research, and restrictions on the academic teaching of ecology and evolution. Concerns related to Israel's unique biodiversity are particularly pressing in light of the constant threats from a rapidly growing population, high development pressures, and frequent military actions. International experience suggests that weakening judicial oversight of government actions in other countries is generating similar threats on a global scale. Therefore, ecologists and conservation biologists should actively be involved in the protection of liberal democracies and judicial independence.