The Bureau of the Standing Committee of the Bern Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats held its first annual meeting from 7 to 9 April 2026 in Strasbourg.

During this important gathering, Bureau members focused on key issues related to the Convention’s financial and strategic development, such as the revision of the Rules of Procedure and the implementation of the Strategic Plan towards 2030.

The Bureau reviewed progress in the Bern Convention’s work and strategic development within the framework of the Council of Europe Strategy on the Environment 2025–2030 and its Action Plan. It also considered participation in key upcoming international events, including COP17 of the Convention on Biological Diversity in Armenia.

In addition, the Bureau took stock of the implementation of the programme of activities for the first part of the year, including efforts related to large carnivore conservation, as well as recent developments concerning the European Diploma for Protected Areas, such as new applications and upcoming site visits.

It also considered progress in monitoring the Convention’s legal implementation, notably the development of a new online reporting system for biennial reports and recent work under Resolution No. 8 (2012) on species and habitats. The Bureau then examined case files submitted by complainants alleging violations of the Convention.

For more information and to consult the agenda, please visit the dedicated meeting webpage.