Bern Convention

Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats

This complaint was submitted in 2019 by MERÇED (Mersin Environment and Nature Association) on the sea turtle nesting site of the Mersin Anamur Beach in Türkiye.

The beach is a nesting site for several sea turtle species including the Loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta), Green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) and Nile soft-shelled turtles (Trionyx triunguis). According to the complaint, the beach is negatively affected due to the illegal constructions of a public beach and picnic area, the planting of grass and trees, excess water and soil flow down to the beach, causing damage on the structure of the sand area and existing nests, and the touristic pressure on the nesting areas, which results in an increase in vehicle traffic, beach furniture, setting off fireworks, light pollution and littering. MERÇED further claims that the municipality is planning further projects, such as the construction of bicycle and walking paths, sports parks, or children's playgrounds, which could put more anthropogenic pressure on the Mersin Anamur Beach.

The case was opened in 2022 during the 42nd Standing Committee. And in 2023, at the 43rd Standing Committee, an on-the-spot appraisal was recommended to take place during 2024 to assess the situation on-site.

At the 43rd Standing Committee in 2023, following a couple of years of talks with stakeholders of the concerned Mediterannean countries, a Guidance Tool on Conservation of sea turtles nesting sites was endorsed by the Standing Committee.

 Key Timeline

• 2019 - Case registration
• 2022 - Opening of case
• 2023 - Recommendation for an OSA

 Other countries possibly concerned

• N/A

 Other international organisations involved

• MEDASSET

 Documents

Complaint form

Regular reports to the Bureau and/or Standing Committee

Please note that all reports received by a Party during one calendar year are included in one single report for that year. Some older reports are not available in digital form.

Other information / documents