The Standing Committee to the Bern Convention held its 44th meeting from 2 to 6 December 2024 in Strasbourg.
Results of the 44th Standing Committee Meeting
The meeting allowed the Contracting Parties, observers, NGO representatives and experts to acknowledge the achievements and issues concerning the Convention, the work of the Bureau in 2024 and the implementation of the Convention itself.
EU proposal concerning the Wolf (Canis Lupus)
The meeting also addressed the EU proposal to amend Appendix II to Appendix III of the Convention on the wolf. The contracting parties adopted the proposal. For more information, please see the news on this matter.
Monitoring species, habitats and specific case-files
Moreover, the participants discussed the monitoring of species and habitats, for instance the conservation of amphibians and reptiles or the management of invasive alien species, as well as a focus on habitats with the Emerald Network and the European Diploma. This was the occasion for groups of experts and consultants to presents their findings. The Standing Committee considered specific case-files and decided on their possible follow-up.
Work Programme and Cooperation
The participants were also updated on the Vision and Strategic Plan for the Bern Convention for the period to 2030, and discussed issues relating to cooperation with other conventions and organisations as well as the future of Programme of Activities for 2025-2026.
The webpage of the meeting including the list of decisions and adopted texts and working documents can be accessed here.
