Illegal wildlife trade is a critical concern that operates in the shadows, impacting not only the survival of numerous species but also having significant repercussions on our climate and biodiversity. The clandestine nature of this trade fuels poaching and smuggling activities, disrupting ecosystems, and endangering the balance of our planet. In this panel session, participants will delve deep into the intricate challenges posed by illegal wildlife trade, exploring its connections to organized crime, the socioeconomic effects on local communities, and the overarching implications for global sustainability. This panel aspires to create a platform where ideas can flow freely, insights can be shared openly, and concrete strategies, including those involving climate finance, can be developed to combat the urgent global crisis of illegal wildlife trade while safeguarding our environment and its diverse inhabitants.