Key events of summer 2025 include the Ramsar COP15 and the 16th Mediterranean Wetland Committee.

The Ramsar COP15, held in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe in July 2025, marked a significant milestone in global wetland conservation. Key achievements included the adoption of the Fifth Strategic Plan for Wetlands (2025–2034). This plan sets ambitious goals to halt and reverse wetland loss, prioritising inclusive governance, indigenous knowledge, and climate resilience.

“This conference has paved the way for countries to significantly scale up the protection and restoration of their wetlands – and safeguard the irreplaceable benefits they provide for people, nature and climate,” said Laura MacKenzie, Head of COP15 Delegation, Wetlands International. “Negotiations and plenary debates were tense at times, but consensus is the core of the Convention, and we welcome the successes achieved at COP15 – as well as the reminder of the importance of multilateralism.” 

MedWet held its 16th Mediterranean Wetland Committee (MedWet/Com 16) meeting during the COP, electing Turkey as Chair and Egypt as Co-chair, adopting a 3-year budget and workplan, and appointing new regional representatives. MedWet also played a leading role in side events, reinforcing regional cooperation and the role of Ramsar Regional Initiatives in advancing wetland protection in the Mediterranean.

For more info: Words of Musonda Mumba (SG Ramsar Wetlands) on MedWet’s role in advancing the Convention objectives

Author: admin

admin account