The idea of arranging this symposium originated with the Chief Director of the National Parks Board of Trustees, Dr R Knobel, towards the end of 1974. It is often stated that the Republic of South Africa (RSA) plays a leading role in the global conservation movement, but that there seems to be a lack of cross-fertilization with other countries and that the RSA is failing to implant the philosophy of nature conservation in the presently developing countries. Unless the emerging states can be convinced of the value of wildlife for mankind, there remains little hope for any future action concerning nature conservation.