In Article 11(2), the STAC is granted power to assess the pertinence of Parties’ exemptions to the Protocol. Such exemptions are to be granted “for scientific, education or management purposes necessary to ensure the survival of the species or to prevent significant damage to forests or crops” and must not “jeopardize the species”. Article 11(2) does not provide clear definitions of these requirements. This review intends to guide the Meeting of the Parties (COP), the Scientific and Technical Advisory Committee (STAC) and Contracting Parties in defining their obligations under Article 11(2)