Summary report, 22–29 March 2026

During a period of unprecedented loss of biodiversity, climate change, and fragmenting multilateralism, the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) continues to show the benefits of sustained international cooperation to enhance the conservation status of migratory species that cross our borders. However, migratory species continue to be at risk, a reality laid bare in the 2026 interim report on the State of the World’s Migratory Species, which revealed that 49% of migratory species populations listed under CMS Appendices I and/or II are declining, and 24% are facing extinction globally. Still, that same report noted that seven CMS-listed species have improved in conservation status, including the saiga antelope, scimitar-horned oryx, and Mediterranean monk seal, which now face reduced extinction risks as a result of Concerted Actions, habitat protections, and anti-poaching initiatives.

As delegates gathered for the 15th Meeting of the CMS Conference of the Parties (COP15), they knew that they had to roll up their sleeves and get to work to ensure that these at-risk species receive greater protection. Under the theme of “connecting nature to sustain all life,” delegates took up the challenge and listed forty new species, subspecies, and populations in the CMS Appendices, of which 20 were added to Appendix I, which comprises migratory species in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of their range. These were: the Pelagic Thresher, Bigeye Thresher, Common Thresher, Scalloped Hammerhead Shark, Great Hammerhead Shark, Lesser Yellowlegs, Hudsonian Godwit, Hudsonian Whimbrel, nine species of Gadfly Petrel (Barau’s, Vanuatu, Black-capped, Zino’s, Magenta, Atlantic, Fiji, Mascarene, and Beck’s), the Zimbabwe population of Cheetah, Striped Hyena, and Giant Otter.

Appendix II, which covers migratory species that have an unfavorable conservation status and require international cooperation for their conservation and management, also saw the inclusion of the Zimbabwe population of Cheetah, Striped Hyena, and Giant Otter, in addition to the Flesh-footed Shearwater, Snowy Owl, Ibera Seedeater, Patagonian Narrownose Smoothhound, Spotted Sorubim, and seventeen species or populations of Gadfly Petrels. Two listing proposals, for Bukhara Deer and Angular Angelshark, were withdrawn.

CMS also employs Concerted Actions (CAs) to achieve concrete, on-the-ground, species-specific conservation priorities. COPs review progress reports, and decide to either extend or renew each CA, consider them complete, or—if no report is submitted—consider them closed. A total of sixteen CAs were approved at COP15, including extensions for those concerning eight species and new proposals for another eight species. Three CAs were deemed complete (Pallas’ Cat, Common Guitarfish and Bottlenose Wedgefish, and Humpback whales of the Arabian Sea), and one was closed (the Great Bustard in Asia).

Several important reports were launched at COP16, including the Global Assessment of Migratory Freshwater Fishes, the most comprehensive accounting of the conservation status of freshwater migratory fish to date, and the interim “State of the World’s Migratory Species” (SWMS) report, CMS’ flagship publication reviewing the conservation status of migratory species and the impacts of their various threats. In addition, the Leibniz Institute for the Analysis of Biodiversity Change signed on as a cooperating partner to the Sharks Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). COP15 also considered agenda items benefiting migratory species, including:

• the launch of the Global Initiative on Taking of Migratory Species to address illegal and/or unsustainable taking of migratory species, with a particular focus on domestic motivations and drivers of exploitation;
• the recognition of six global marine flyways for seabirds and related actions;
• progress on implementing the Samarkand Strategic Plan for Migratory Species (SPMS) (2024–2032); and
• recommendations on deep-sea mining, infrastructure, insect decline, multiple systems of knowledge, the conservation implications of animal culture and social complexity, among others.

CMS COP15 convened in Campo Grande, Brazil, from 23–29 March 2026. Over 2,000 people attended, including 393 delegates representing 105 Parties, 337 observers from national and international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international organizations, and 54 representatives of Indigenous Peoples and local communities.

A Brief History of CMS

Migratory species are vulnerable to a wide range of threats, including habitat shrinkage in breeding areas, excessive hunting along migration routes, and degradation of their feeding grounds. As a result of international concern over these threats, CMS was adopted in 1979 and entered into force on 1 November 1983. CMS, also known as the Bonn Convention, recognizes that States must be the protectors of migratory species that live within or pass through their national jurisdictions and aims to conserve terrestrial, marine, and avian migratory species throughout their ranges. CMS currently has 133 Parties. 

The Convention was designed to allow for expansion and revision of commitments and provide a framework through which Parties may act to conserve migratory species and their habitat by: adopting strict protection measures for migratory species that have been characterized as being in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of their ranges (species listed in Appendix I of the Convention); concluding agreements for the conservation and management of migratory species that have an unfavorable conservation status or would benefit significantly from international cooperation (species listed in Appendix II); and joint research and monitoring activities. Before COP15, 194 migratory species, subspecies, or populations were listed in Appendix I. 

CMS also provides for the development of specialized regional agreements for Appendix II-listed species. To date, seven such agreements and 19 MOUs have been concluded. The seven agreements aim to conserve: populations of European bats; cetaceans of the Mediterranean Sea, Black Sea, and contiguous Atlantic area; small cetaceans of the Baltic and North Seas; seals in the Wadden Sea; African-Eurasian migratory waterbirds; albatrosses and petrels; and gorillas and their habitats. The 19 MOUs aim to conserve: the Siberian Crane; the Slender-billed Curlew; marine turtles of the Atlantic coast of Africa; marine turtles of the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia; the Middle-European population of the Great Bustard; the Bukhara Deer; the Aquatic Warbler; West African populations of the African Elephant; the Saiga Antelope; cetaceans in the Pacific islands region; dugongs; the Mediterranean Monk Seal; the Ruddy-headed Goose; grassland birds of southern South America; High Andean flamingos; South Andean Huemul; migratory sharks; raptors (birds of prey in Africa and Eurasia); and the Manatee and small cetaceans of Western Africa and Micronesia. These agreements and MOUs are open to all Range States of the species, regardless of whether they are Parties to the Convention. 

Eight action plans have also been concluded on the: Central Asian flyway; Sahelo-Saharan antelopes; Chinese Crested Tern; Black-faced Spoonbill; Spoon-billed Sandpiper; Madagascar Pond Heron; White-winged Flufftail; and Lesser Flamingo. There are also three initiatives on bycatch, Central Eurasian Aridland Mammals, and Houbara Bustard, as well as three Special Species Initiatives on the Central Asian Flyway, Central Asian Mammals, and Sahelo-Saharan Megafauna. 

The COP is the principal decision-making body of the Convention and meets every three years. COP1 was held in 1985. 

Recent Meetings of the COP

COP12: COP12 (22–28 October 2017, Manila, Philippines) adopted 54 resolutions, including the Manila Declaration on Sustainable Development and Migratory Species. Other resolutions adopted included those on: the prevention of illegal killing, taking, and trade of migratory birds; sustainable boat-based marine wildlife watching; energy and migratory species; community participation and livelihoods; aquatic wild meat; CAs for, among others, the Whale Shark, Mobulid rays, and the European Eel; and the adoption of the African Elephant Action Plan. The COP adopted 34 proposals to amend the Convention’s Appendices, four of which were subject to a vote—for the first time in the Convention’s history. 

COP13: COP13 (15–22 February 2020, Gandhinagar, India) adopted ten resolutions, including the Gandhinagar Declaration, which called for migratory species and the concept of “ecological connectivity” to be integrated into the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF).

COP13 added ten new species to CMS Appendices, with seven listed in Appendix I (the Asian Elephant, Jaguar, Great Indian Bustard, Bengal Florican, Little Bustard, Antipodean Albatross, and Oceanic White-tip Shark) and three in Appendix II (the Urial Sheep, Smooth Hammerhead Shark, and Tope Shark). New and extended CAs with targeted conservation plans were approved for 14 species. COP13 also agreed to strengthen initiatives to combat the illegal killing, taking, and trade of migratory birds; mitigate the impacts of linear infrastructure on migratory species; deepen the understanding of the importance of animal culture and social complexity for the conservation of endangered species; and investigate possible trade in CMS Appendix I-listed species and the implications for their conservation status.

COP14: COP14 (11–17 February 2024, Samarkand, Uzbekistan) added fourteen new species, subspecies, and populations to the CMS Appendices, with ten listed in Appendix I (Balkan Lynx; Lahille’s Bottlenose Dolphin; Baltic Proper population of the Harbour Porpoise; Peruvian Pelican; Magellanic Plover; Southern African population of the Bearded Vulture; Sand Tiger Shark; Mediterranean Sea population of the Blackchin Guitarfish; Mediterranean Sea population of the Bull Ray; and Mediterranean Sea population of the Lusitanian Cownose Ray) and eleven species in Appendix II (Eurasian Lynx; Pallas’ Cat or Manul; Guanaco; Lahille’s Bottlenose Dolphin; Peruvian Pelican; Sand Tiger Shark; Blackchin Guitarfish; Bull Ray; Lusitanian Cownose Ray; Gilded Catfish; and Laulau Catfish or Piramuta). 

New or renewed CAs with targeted conservation plans were approved for 13 species, closed for two, and replaced for one, and six MOU signings took place on: the Conservation of Migratory Birds of Prey in Africa and Eurasia; the Conservation of Wildlife on Ustyurt Plateau; a donor agreement for hosting the CMS Office - Abu Dhabi; an agreement for the Food System, Land Use, and Restoration Impact Program under the Global Environment Facility (GEF); supporting priority work on commitments under the African Carnivore Initiative; and the Conservation of High Andean flamingos (Phoenicoparrus jamesi and Phoenicoparrus andinus) and their habitats.

COP15 Report

While COP15 opened officially on Monday, 23 March, it was preceded by a High-level Segment on Sunday, 22 March.

High-level Segment

Voicing their dedication to cooperating across borders on migratory species conservation despite turbulent global geopolitics, the President of Brazil, the President of Paraguay, ministers, and other prominent stakeholders stressed the importance of multilateralism as they gathered for a special High-level Segment under the theme “Connecting Nature to Sustain Life.”

CMS COP15 Chair João Paulo Capobianco (Brazil) moderated the High-level Segment and introduced Marina Silva, Minister of the Environment, Brazil, who stressed the importance of sustaining biodiversity across borders and called for protecting migratory species by safeguarding the connected ecosystems that sustain them. Amid increasing geopolitical instability, she urged delegates to make COP15 “a resounding defense for multilateralism.”

Eduardo Riedel, Governor of Mato Grosso do Sul (MS), Brazil, highlighted that the state contains three out of Brazil’s five biomes: the Pantanal (wetlands), the Cerrado (savanna), and the Atlantic Forest (semideciduous forest). Noting that more than 90% of MS and 97% of the Pantanal is under private ownership, he called for financial and other mechanisms to make biodiversity conservation “an economically viable choice, and not just an obligation.”

Antonio Herman Benjamin, President, Superior Court of Justice, Brazil, underscored that conventions are law, and judges are integral to their implementation. He drew attention to the work of environmental defenders, outlining the dangers they face, with many losing their lives endeavoring to protect the environment. Benjamin concluded by noting the increasing trend of courts being asked to reaffirm and defend scientific knowledge and lamenting the conditions that have led to this situation.

Amy Fraenkel, CMS Executive Secretary, said COP15 is facing a pivotal moment, with trends for migratory species moving in the wrong direction. She said decisions taken at COP15 will be key to reversing habitat decline and achieving the goals of other conventions. Fraenkel underscored that the survival of CMS-listed species requires constructive intergovernmental cooperation.

Panel 1: The Importance of Wetlands: Musonda Mumba, Secretary General, Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, opened this session by emphasizing that wetlands provide critical lifelines for people, species, and the climate. She underscored the need to strengthen connectivity, whether ecological, hydrological, or political, to guarantee a healthy post-2030 world.

The subsequent panel discussion featured: Evelyn Ndlovu, Minister of Environment, Climate, and Wildlife, Zimbabwe; Astrid Schomaker, Executive Secretary, Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD); Ivonne Higuero, Secretary-General, Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES); Mauro Pires, President, Chico Mendes Institute; Gabriel Quijandría, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Regional Director; Emmanuel Lenain, Ambassador of France; and Rómulo Acurio, Ambassador of Peru.

Participants highlighted:

• transboundary initiatives with Zimbabwe’s neighbors to protect wetlands to enable them to continue fulfilling their ecological functions;
• the economic co-benefits of protecting wetlands, notably for disaster prevention;
• the need for cooperation among conventions to pool resources to maximize impact, including by integrating the protection of wetlands and migratory species into national strategies and spatial planning instruments to reduce reporting burdens;
• the importance of embedding policies on wetlands and migratory species within the GBF and working across ministries and silos to maximize impact;
• developing technology and partnerships as important mechanisms to guide conservation and restoration;
• the need to integrate biodiversity policies and focus on biodiversity and nature-based solutions; and
• key actions to improve the conservation status of wetlands, including strengthened cross-border cooperation; the participation of Indigenous Peoples and local communities (IPLCs) in monitoring and environmental management; and infrastructure development compatible with biodiversity corridors.

Panel 2: Infrastructure: In the session keynote, André Luiz de Andrade, Chair, CMS Energy Task Force (ETF), called for incorporating ecological connectivity into planning, developing, and financing future global energy infrastructure. He noted the Taskforce was established to transform scientific knowledge on migratory species and their habitats into practical tools to support more well-informed energy infrastructure decisions, and he urged more Parties to join it. 

Panelists included: Luthando Dziba, Executive Secretary, Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES); Zrinka Domazetović, Executive Secretary, Agreement on the Conservation of Populations of European Bats (EUROBATS); Sergey Dereliev, Executive Secretary, Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA); Rodrigo Agostinho, President, Brazilian Institute of the Environment and Renewable Natural Resources; Carlos García de Alba, Ambassador of Mexico; Vusi Mavimbela, Ambassador of South Africa; Eloy Terena, Vice Minister of Indigenous Peoples, Brazil; and Rivetla Edipo Araújo Cruz, Vice Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Brazil.

Discussions covered:

• IPBES’ work on integrated spatial planning to address land-use change and its impact;
• smaller instruments under CMS that can provide information and advice on scalable solutions;
• using data to effectively plan infrastructure and undertake sensitivity mapping across the entire range of flyways;
• the need for innovative tools and approaches to turn mortality due to obstacles along migratory paths into “the exception, instead of the rule”;
• reducing unplanned agricultural expansion, especially into wetlands, so that migratory wildlife can better coexist with human communities;
• mitigating the impacts of power infrastructure on migratory birds by installing bird flight diverters on transmission lines and establishing shutdown on demand protocols for wind turbines;
• the need for integrated planning that is considerate of Indigenous Peoples’ rights and ancestral knowledge; and
• the importance of cross-sectoral management and conservation in safeguarding species and freshwater corridors, since fisheries management alone cannot redress the impacts of major industries such as hydroelectric dams.

Presidential Segment: Brazilian Minister for the Environment Silva emphasized the interdependence of life on Earth and urged for protecting the ecological connectivity this interdependence requires. She called for strengthened transboundary cooperation to ensure future generations inherit a balanced planet.

CMS Executive Secretary Fraenkel underscored that nature, when fragmented, becomes more vulnerable and loses its ability to function well. Reflecting on the COP15 theme, “Connecting Nature to Sustain Life,” she highlighted the case of the Amazonian Dorado (Brachyplatystoma rousseauxii), among the many freshwater fish species directly contributing to global food security, and one that requires unfragmented water flows to thrive. Fraenkel urged for greater focus on well-connected protected areas and on participation in the Global Partnership on Ecological Connectivity, launched at COP14.

Fernando Aramayo Carrasco, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bolivia, emphasized protecting migratory species as both an environmental and a regional security issue. Carrasco underscored that ecosystem fragmentation represents a collective security vulnerability. He called for strengthening links among CMS and other conventions and for harmonizing policies and information between countries. 

Santiago Peña, President of Paraguay, pointed to the convergence of ecosystems in his country and underscored their importance to communities and Paraguay’s history, culture, and economic development. Peña outlined national concrete targets to safeguard national heritage and efforts to strengthen the strategic management of critical environmental areas. Peña also highlighted environmental education as a way to create a more aware citizenship, since “protecting the environment is a shared responsibility between countries and communities, and raising this awareness is critical to the survival of species.” 

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, President of Brazil, signed three decrees to expand protected areas in Brazil. In his remarks, Lula emphasized that hosting COP15 in Campo Grande was a “strategic choice” as it is the gateway to the Pantanal, the world’s largest tropical floodplain. He noted that CMS reminds us of a “simple but powerful message: migrating is natural.” Lula emphasized that connected ecosystems preserve natural cycles and ensure the balance that makes life possible.

Lula called the CMS a “pioneer” convention for UN environmental architectures and urged updating it in line with related conventions and expanding financial support. Lula highlighted cooperation among countries to protect migratory species and called for coordinated action on combating environmental crimes. 

In closing, Lula underscored this as a time of great geopolitical tension and called for the UN Security Council to seek solutions to conflict. Noting a world without rules is an unsafe one, he urged working against wars and hate speech, and toward welcoming policies and strong multilateralism.

Opening Plenary

In opening remarks on Monday, Brazilian Minister of Environment and Climate Change Silva highlighted the significance of hosting COP15 at the gateway to the Pantanal, an iconic wetland that serves as habitat for many migratory species. She pointed to this COP as an opportunity to “rekindle the light of multilateralism.”

Elizabeth Maruma Mrema, Deputy Executive Director, UN Environment Programme (UNEP), underscored that protecting migratory species cannot be done by any actor alone, with their survival depending on Parties and partners working in concert across borders.

Illustrating the cases of several CMS-listed species, CMS Executive Secretary Fraenkel underscored the importance of preventing habitat fragmentation, reducing bycatch, and regulating illegal and unsustainable taking, both domestically and internationally. Fraenkel noted concerning trends outlined in the interim SWMS report on the extinction risk and population decline of migratory species, and urged delegates to continue their efforts toward cooperation to achieve the Convention’s goals.

Mauricio Lyrio, Secretary for Energy, Climate and Environment, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Brazil, emphasized that Brazil considers the conservation of migratory species through ecological connectivity to be a fundamental pillar of sustainable development rather than a solely environmental objective. Lyrio underscored that “connectivity has costs” and urged adequate and predictable means of implementation.

Following a cultural performance by six dancers of the Terena People, who are Indigenous to the Pantanal, Adriane da Silva Soares, an Indigenous leader, underscored threats to this iconic wetland. Brazilian scientist Alexandre Zerbini then described the threats facing whales, as one in four cetaceous species risks extinction. Brazilian biologist Tatiana Neves underscored the plight of the Albatross, a frequent victim of fisheries bycatch, and highlighted possible solutions, such as night fishing.

Organizational Matters

Election of Officers: On Monday, Parties elected by acclamation João Paulo Capobianco (Brazil) as COP15 Chair; Khalid Cherki (Morocco) as COP15 Vice-Chair and Committee of the Whole (CoW) Chair; and Inka Gnittke (Germany) as CoW Vice-Chair.

Adoption of the Agenda and Meeting Schedule: On Monday, Chair Capobianco invited delegates to review the draft provisional agenda (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.3.1/Rev.1) and provisional annotated agenda and meeting schedule (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.3.2/Rev.1), which the COP adopted.

Adoption of the Rules of Procedure: On Monday, Chair Capobianco noted that there were no requests to amend the Rules of Procedure as adopted at COP13 (UNEP/CMS/COP Rules of Procedure).

Establishment of In-session Committees: On Monday, the COP elected Australia, Zimbabwe, Saudi Arabia, Peru, and the Netherlands to the Credentials Committee.

Admission of Observers: On Monday, the COP admitted international and national agencies and bodies that meet the criteria set out in Article VII, paragraph 9 of the Convention, to participate as observers at this meeting (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc. 6).

Reports

Report of the Outgoing COP Presidency: On Monday, UZBEKISTAN reported on activities of the COP Presidency since COP14, including initiatives focused on expanding protected areas, strengthening ties with global environmental agreements, and regional cooperation under the Samarkand SPMS.

Reports and Recommendations of the Subsidiary Bodies of the Convention: On Monday, Rhiannon Hudson-Jones (UK), for the Standing Committee (SC) Chair, reported on SC activities since COP14, including on oversight and governance matters such as reviewing the “persistent challenge” of arrears, alongside actions taken regarding an airport development project in Albania negatively impacting several CMS-listed species.

Scientific Council (ScC) Chair Narelle Montgomery (Australia) reported on ScC activities since COP14. She highlighted the range of scientific items under consideration at COP15, noting these reflect the ScC’s significant workload and contributions. Montgomery also outlined work across taxonomic groups and cross-cutting issues, and underlined that the ScC serves as “the engine room of this Convention,” enabling its substantive efforts.

Executive Secretary Fraenkel recognized the outstanding work conducted by Montgomery in her terms leading the ScC, and thanked her for her contribution.

The COP noted the reports.

Report of the Depositary and Host Country: On Monday, Chair Capobianco introduced this agenda item (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.9). GERMANY noted the 133 Parties to the Convention, with no new accessions or withdrawals since January 2025. They outlined ongoing efforts to recruit new Parties, including outreach through diplomatic networks. They further stated that Czechia had withdrawn their reservations regarding the Amendments to the Appendices of the Convention adopted at COP14.

The COP noted the report.

Statements: Parties: On Monday, INDIA underscored their role in the Special Species Initiative for the Central Asian Flyway and stated that these actions strengthen their role in conserving biodiversity and improve the resilience of the initiative.

The EU underlined the CMS’s work as critical to achieving the GBF. They welcomed the entry into force of the Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement), underscoring its role in conserving and protecting migratory species.

Costa Rica, for CENTRAL AND SOUTH AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN, lamented that many developing countries, despite hosting ecosystems of global importance, face limitations in technical capacity, including financial and human resources. They called for bridging this gap by aligning financial mechanisms, technical cooperation, and capacity-building with the level of political ambition, underscoring that otherwise, “connectivity will remain an unfulfilled promise.”

New Zealand, for OCEANIA, noted their leadership in seabird conservation, including proposals for listings in the CMS Appendices. They said Parties have been active, outlining numerous workshops and other capacity-building activities taking place, as well as efforts by the Secretariat of the Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) to strengthen synergies between CMS and CITES.

Zimbabwe, for the AFRICAN GROUP, said COP15 is happening at a time when migratory species face urgent conservation challenges. They said Africa’s prosperity is linked to its biodiversity, and its goals cannot be achieved in isolation. They urged strengthening measures to combat illegal killing and taking of species.

UKRAINE lamented the incursion of the Russian Federation and its negative impact on migratory species in Ukraine.

CMS Agreements: On Monday, the COP took note of reports from representatives of the: Agreement on the Conservation of Small Cetaceans of the Baltic, North East Atlantic, Irish, and North Seas (ASCOBANS) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Inf.10.3.1); Agreement on the Conservation of Albatrosses and Petrels (ACAP) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Inf.10.3.2); Agreement on the Conservation of Cetaceans of the Black Sea, Mediterranean Sea and Contiguous Atlantic Area (ACCOBAMS) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Inf.10.3.3); AEWA (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Inf.10.3.4); and EUROBATS (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Inf.10.3.5).

Intergovernmental Organizations and Non-governmental Organizations: On Monday, WORLD WILD FUND FOR NATURE (WWF), on behalf of multiple NGOs, welcomed initiatives and proposals, including adding new species to Appendices I and II. CITES noted collaboration with CMS to harmonize information, support capacity-building, and protect multiple species, including cheetahs, lions, leopards, and marine turtles. IUCN urged action on bycatch and full implementation of the Samarkand SPMS. ICLEI - LOCAL GOVERNMENTS FOR SUSTAINABILITY underscored the unique position of cities and subnational governments to protect migratory species, including by raising awareness, reducing light pollution, and considering species in land-use planning. BORN FREE FOUNDATION underscored their work supporting CMS objectives, including promoting local stewardship and strengthening capacity. INTERNATIONAL WHALING COMMISSION (IWC) noted collaboration with CMS, ACCOBAMS, and ASCOBANS to foster synergies and build capacity. ÁGUAS AMAZÔNICAS welcomed the opportunity to contribute to working with partners to deliver meaningful action for the Amazon Basin.

Report of UNEP: On Monday, UNEP introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.11, highlighting regional conservation and restoration efforts to enhance ecological connectivity for key migratory species. The COP noted the report.

Report of the Secretariat and Implementation of the Programme of Work: On Monday, CMS Executive Secretary Fraenkel introduced the report on the implementation of the Programme of Work 2024–2026 (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.13), noting the significant work undertaken despite the shorter than usual intersessional period. She also highlighted efforts on developing legislative guidance, diversifying funding sources, and promoting accession to the Convention.

The COP noted the report.

Administrative and Budgetary Matters

Budget and Administration: Execution of CMS Budget 2024–2025: In the CoW on Monday, the Secretariat introduced the document (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.14.1), noting that unpaid arrears for this period total USD 510,760. They urged Parties to settle their outstanding contributions.

The CoW and the COP took note of the report.

Budget 2027–2029 and Programme of Work for the Intersessional Period between COP15 and COP16: In the CoW on Monday, CMS Executive Secretary Fraenkel introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.14.2/Rev.1 and its three budgetary scenarios: one with zero nominal growth; one with zero real growth; and one with moderate growth. Fraenkel stressed that now more than ever, CMS must be equipped to deliver its mandates in light of the state of biodiversity loss, climate change, and compounding global challenges.

The Secretariat outlined the annexed programme of work for the intersessional period between COP15 and COP16 (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.14.2/Rev.1/Annex 7/Rev.1). The CoW referred the items to the budget working group.

Outcome: On Sunday, the COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP14.2. In the resolution on the budget for the triennium 2027–2029, the COP adopts the budget contained in Annex 1, of EUR 3,477,476 for 2027, EUR 3,574,875 for 2028, and EUR 3,963,489 for 2029, and among others:

• adopts the scale of contributions of Parties to the Convention as set out in Annex 2;
• endorses the Programme of Work for the intersessional period between COP15 and COP16, as contained in Annex 6;
• urges Parties to pay their contributions, and those with arrears to cooperate with the Secretariat in arranging for the payment of their outstanding contributions without delay;
• decides that resolutions and decisions adopted by the COP establishing bodies, mechanisms, or activities with financial implications not provided for in Annex 1 are subject to available funds from voluntary contributions;
• decides that funding allocations for Parties to attend the Convention’s meetings give first priority to Parties not in arrears of three years or more, followed by least developed countries and small island developing states (SIDS); and
• repeals Resolution 14.2.

Resource Mobilization: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.14.3 on exploring options for a dedicated CMS financial mechanism, including through the GEF. BRAZIL, with PANAMA, CHILE, and COSTA RICA, supported such a mechanism, while the EU, UK, NEW ZEALAND, NORWAY, and MONACO opposed, citing duplication risks. CoW Chair Cherki referred the item to the cross-cutting and institutional issues working group.

On Thursday, the CoW considered a conference room paper (CRP). BRAZIL asked to defer consideration until the related language on resource mobilization in other decisions was resolved.

On Friday, a CRP on resource mobilization was reverted to the working group on cross-cutting issues for further discussion, and on Saturday, UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP14.3/Rev.1 was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP amended Resolution 10.25 (Rev.COP14) on enhancing engagement with the GEF as follows to, among others:

• encourage Parties to contribute to GBF implementation by mainstreaming the SPMS 2024–2032 into their National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans (NBSAPs), in order to benefit fully from the relevant GEF funding available;
• request the Secretariat to explore options for strengthening support of the GEF for implementing CMS; and
• invite the GEF to support CMS implementation in the framework of the relevant GEF Focal Areas and Integrated Programmes.

The COP further adopted the associated decisions that, among others, invite the GEF to engage in a dialogue with the CMS Secretariat regarding options for strengthening support for CMS implementation. The decisions regarding the resource mobilization strategy request the SC to:

• compile information on the resources from all sources, for migratory species conservation, to map existing funding sources and their availability, and to identify gaps and potential resource mobilization options; and
• taking into consideration the aforementioned compilation of information, develop a resource mobilization strategy, with special attention to the specific challenges faced by developing country Parties, in particular least developed countries and SIDS in implementing the Convention, and to submit it for consideration and approval at COP16.

Strategic and Institutional Matters

Samarkand Strategic Plan for Migratory Species 2024-2032: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.15. NEW ZEALAND, EU, UK, and AUSTRALIA expressed concerns about, while BRAZIL supported, certain indicators and actions for Target 4.3, on Parties securing and mobilizing resources to implement the Convention by 2029. CoW Chair Cherki referred the item to the working group on cross-cutting and institutional issues. On Saturday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted the CRP with amendments to Resolution 14.1 and associated decisions (UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP15/Rev.1), and deleted Decisions 14.1–14.4. The amended resolution, among others: invites the Secretariat to contribute to the GBF monitoring framework by providing any data it has collected on the indicators for the SPMS to the CBD Secretariat; and decides to keep the implementation of the Samarkand SPMS under review at COP16 and COP17.

In the decisions, Parties are encouraged to implement the Samarkand SPMS and report on implementation through their National Reports.

Among others, the SC is requested to adopt a new template for National Reports for COP16, and provide advice on the implications of Samarkand SPMS implementation for the CMS Programme of Work. The ScC is requested to provide scientific advice to the SC on any potential changes to the Samarkand SPMS goals, targets, or indicators, based on emerging scientific evidence and global trends.

The Secretariat is requested to, among others: raise awareness of the Samarkand SPMS among other MEAs; identify data gaps that may hinder progress in relation to the Strategic Plan’s indicators; and undertake an assessment of the implementation of the Strategic Plan and share findings with Parties to inform adaptive management.

Scientific Council: Sessional Committee Members: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.16.1/Rev.2 on candidates for the ScC. The CoW referred the item to the working group on institutional and cross-cutting issues.

Outcome: On Sunday, the COP approved the nominations of COP-appointed Councillors, including two new Councillors for terrestrial mammals and wildlife health. The COP accepted nominations for the Sessional Committee of the ScC from the regional committees as follows: Ethiopia and South Africa for Africa; Uzbekistan, Mongolia, and India for Asia; Bulgaria, Italy, and UK for Europe; Brazil, Paraguay, and Panama for Central and South America and the Caribbean; and Fiji, Samoa, and the Philippines for Oceania.

Overview of the Working Groups and Task Forces Established under the CMS Scientific Council and its Sessional Committee: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.16.2/Rev.1. The CoW noted the document.

Election of Parties to the Standing Committee: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.17. CoW Chair Cherki urged regional groups to seek agreement.

Outcome: On Sunday, the COP accepted the nominations from the regional committees as follows: Zimbabwe, Morocco, Uganda for Africa; India and Bahrain for Asia; Belgium, Montenegro, and the UK for Europe; Costa Rica and Brazil for Central and South America and the Caribbean; and Cook Islands for Oceania.

Collaboration with Other Entities: Synergies and Partnerships: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.18.1. CITES underscored the power of partnerships to protect species, pointing to the recovery of the Saiga Antelope. UNEP urged for coherence across MEAs.

Outcome: The COP adopted the new decisions, and deleted Decisions 14.8–14.10. In the decisions, the Secretariat is requested to, subject to the availability of external resources:

• undertake a concise review of the values, policy principles, and concrete opportunities that exist in relation to the tangible and intangible cultural values associated with migratory species and their conservation, in collaboration with interested Parties and institutional partners; and
• develop a partnership policy tailored to the Convention and its instruments, depending on the outcome of the testing of the simplified UNEP policy.

Cooperation with the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.18.2. IPBES underscored their relevance to CMS. NORWAY, SOUTH AFRICA, and BORN FREE FOUNDATION called for more cooperation. The Secretariat agreed to prepare a CRP.

Outcome: The COP adopted the decisions in UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP18.2 and deleted Decisions 14.11-14.14. In the decisions, the ScC is requested to, subject to the availability of resources:

• actively engage in relevant IPBES assessments processes and, as appropriate, other deliverables of IPBES, with a view to ensuring that CMS needs and priority elements are taken into account; and
• review the scientific aspects of selected IPBES assessments and, as appropriate, other deliverables of IPBES, and make recommendations on their relevance to the implementation of CMS for consideration by COP16.

The Secretariat is requested to support the ScC in these activities and to engage with the IPBES Secretariat to further cooperate on issues of relevance to migratory species.

CMS Contribution to the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.18.3.

The EU urged CMS to participate in the global review of collective progress on GBF implementation. KENYA, SENEGAL, and UNEP emphasized the role of NBSAPs. The Secretariat agreed to prepare a CRP.

Outcome: The COP adopted the decisions in UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP18.3 and deleted Decisions 14.6 and 14.7. In the decisions, Parties are requested to:

• ensure that migratory species’ needs and considerations are integrated in the revision, update, and implementation of NBSAPs and national targets in line with the GBF, including national action plans, and in bilateral and regional cooperation as part of their GBF implementation, as well as the national reports to the CBD by reflecting the CMS objectives; and
• consider engaging in the Bern Process, facilitated by UNEP, to contribute to effective and efficient implementation of the GBF, and consider its relevant outcomes.

Subject to the availability of resources, the Secretariat is requested to:

• continue contributing to GBF implementation, including the global review of collective progress in implementing the GBF;
• continue actively engaging in the Bern Process;
• develop a new Joint Work Programme with the CBD Secretariat aiming to streamline indicators and outputs; and
• report on progress to the SC and COP16.

Communications, Outreach and Information Management: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.19, highlighting the launch of the SWMS interim report. BRAZIL suggested calling for more than just financial support. The EU said communications should be tailored to the general public, and outreach should include other MEAs. KENYA proposed using the SWMS interim report for fundraising. The Secretariat agreed to prepare a CRP.

On Thursday, delegates approved and forwarded a CRP to the COP.

Outcome: The COP adopted new decisions in UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP19/Rev.1 in which Parties are encouraged to, among others:

• provide support for the continued implementation of Strategic Communication Assessment recommendations;
• designate or confirm National Communication Focal Points to facilitate the localized dissemination of global CMS campaigns; and
• utilize and promote the SWMS report findings within national educational and policy frameworks.

Subject to the availability of resources, the Secretariat is requested to continue implementing the Strategic Communications Assessment recommendations, in particular those tailored to the general public, and continue exploring relevant strategic partnerships.

Scientific Assessments and Reports

Conservation Status of Migratory Species: Development of the Next State of the World’s Migratory Species Report: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.20.1/Rev.1. Parties suggested amendments to draft decisions including to: ensure studies reflect integrated approaches and replicable best practices; provide guidance on CMS Appendix I obligations in CITES permitting processes; and seek a simplified approach for Parties submitting data on migratory species. CoW Chair Cherki referred the item to the working group on cross-cutting and institutional issues.

On Friday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted new decisions (UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP20.1), in which the Secretariat is requested, subject to the availability of resources and in consultation with and supported by the ScC, to, inter alia:

• develop the second SWMS report and present it to COP16;
• develop an outline for a CMS Data Dashboard;
• prepare and distribute targeted information material for CMS Parties to support their consideration of CMS Appendix I obligations in their CITES permitting processes; and
• where information is requested from Parties, provide simplified and standardized data submission templates and targeted technical support as needed, particularly to developing country Range States, to facilitate coordinated data collection.

Parties are encouraged to forward the materials referred to in the decisions to their CITES Management Authorities, and the ScC is requested to provide technical and scientific support to the Secretariat in implementing the decisions.

State of the World’s Migratory Species - Interim Report (2026): On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.20.2/Rev.1 and UNEP presented findings, underscoring that key biodiversity indicators for CMS-listed species are trending negatively, requiring accelerated efforts to scale up action.

The COP noted the report.

Atlas of Animal Migration: The Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.21/Rev.1. The CoW noted the document and forwarded the decisions to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted the decisions that include, inter alia, requests to the ScC to promote knowledge and use of the Atlas and to make recommendations on its future development, including options for enhancing the interoperability of data sets and improving its usability for conservation policies.

Interpretation and Reporting on Implementation of the Convention

National Reports: On Friday, the Secretariat presented UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.22 and Inf.22, recalling that COP14 had requested the development of a revised national reporting template, to be finalized by the Secretariat and submitted for consideration to the SC at its 59th meeting. UNEP-WORLD CONSERVATION MONITORING CENTRE (UNEP-WCMC) outlined insights on Parties’ progress in implementing the Convention since COP14, citing: regional cooperation among implementation successes; highly pathogenic avian influenza among the emerging threats faced; and the full prohibition of taking of Appendix I species, as well as financial and technical capacity constraints, among the most common challenges to implementation.

BRAZIL proposed an amendment to streamline reporting requirements, and the CoW submitted a CRP (UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP22) to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP: adopted decisions to review resolutions requesting Parties to report on activities through national reports and propose to COP16 their deletion or amendment, as appropriate, to ensure consistency with the revised reporting format; noted the analysis of national reports in Inf.22; and deleted Decisions 14.25 to 14.27.

Review Mechanism and National Legislation Programme: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.23. KENYA supported, and BRAZIL opposed, creating a CMS Multi-stakeholder Legal Task Force on Legislation. On Thursday, a CRP (UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP23) was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted decisions directing the Secretariat to prepare terms of reference (ToR) for the task force for the consideration of the SC at its 59th meeting and deleted Decisions 14.28 and 14.29.

Review of Decisions: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.24, on the deletion or continuity of decisions not otherwise included in COP15 documents. The EU recommended renewing decisions on seabirds, marine wildlife, and plastics. The CoW agreed to retain the decisions noted by the EU.

Outcome: The COP deleted: Decisions 14.38–14.39, on the maltreatment and mutilation of seabirds in fisheries; Decisions 14.54 and 14.56b on marine wildlife watching; Decision 14.143 on the initiative for the Central Asian Flyway; and Decisions 14.223, 14.224, 14.225a, and 14.226 on the impacts of plastic pollution on aquatic, terrestrial, and avian species.

The COP renewed: Decision 14.40 on the maltreatment and mutilation of seabirds in fisheries; Decisions 14.55 and 14.56a on marine wildlife watching; Decisions 14.65–14.68 on seagrass ecosystems; and Decisions 14.87–14.92 on sirenians, pinnipeds and otters.

Implementation of Taxa-specific and Cross-cutting Mandates

Aquatic Species Conservation Issues

Fisheries-induced Threats and Direct Take: Bycatch and other Fisheries-induced Mortality: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/Cop15/Doc.25.1.1.

PERU, supported by PANAMA and SENEGAL, called for the document’s definition of bycatch to include avian species. AUSTRALIA pointed to joint research work under the Pacific Island Cetacean MOU to reduce entanglement and support sustainable livelihoods.

ANIMAL WELFARE INSTITUTE described the “severe” impacts on CMS-listed species of bycatch resulting from the shift in global demand from shark fins to fish maw, or swim bladders.

The CoW referred the item to the aquatic working group, who prepared a CRP.

On Saturday, the CoW forwarded the CRP to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP25.1.1/Rev.1 with amendments to Resolution 12.22 urging, inter alia, Parties to take precautionary measures where bycatch is poorly known or levels are unquantified, implement measures to mitigate bycatch of Appendix I species, and address bycatch in national legislation. The COP also adopted decisions requesting:

• Parties to, inter alia, encourage Regional Fishery Bodies and other relevant bodies to undertake population assessments for species that are included in the Appendices of CMS, and review their existing legislation and enact new legislation, as required, with a view to addressing the prohibition of the taking of Appendix I-listed chondrichthyan species;
• the ScC to, among others, review current knowledge on existing measures to reduce and mitigate bycatch of freshwater fish for both commercial and artisanal fisheries, and make recommendations to Parties on the most effective and appropriate measures to mitigate bycatch, while ensuring that recommended measures do not act to the disadvantage of other CMS-listed species; and
• the Secretariat to, among others: prepare a synthesis report to be published as part of the CMS Technical Series collating bycatch mitigation strategies and prepare legislative guidance materials and technical support to assist Parties in drafting adequate national legislation to support the implementation of Article III (5) of the Convention regarding the prohibition of the taking of Appendix I-listed chondrichthyan species.

Bycatch of Chondrichthyan Species: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.25.1.2. ARGENTINA highlighted national efforts to build capacity for responsible fisheries. CoW Chair Cherki noted the document would be included in a CRP prepared for the previous agenda item on bycatch.

Outcome: The COP adopted decisions (UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP25.1.1/Rev.1) noting a report on domestic legislation, which finds that bycatch minimization is the most prevalent element of such legislation while regulations on sales and penalties for bycatch are only found in a couple pieces of legislation. The COP deleted decisions 14.117 to 14.118.

Fish Aggregating Devices (FADs): On Wednesday, the Secretariat presented UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.25.1.3 and Inf.25.1.3.

NEW ZEALAND pointed to efforts by the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission to implement measures to reduce the impact of FADs on migratory species. IWC expressed their commitment to collaborate on addressing FADs.

The CoW referred the item to the aquatic working group, which prepared a CRP.

On Thursday, a CRP (UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP25.1.3) was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

 Outcome: The COP adopted decisions, including to:

• encourage Parties to apply recommendations in Annex 1, including regulating the design of FADs to require non-entangling designs and biodegradable materials, controlling the number of FADs that can be deployed per vessel or fleet-wide, and encouraging recovery efforts for lost FADs;
• request the ScC to monitor FADs as a source of plastic pollution;
• direct the Secretariat in collaboration with IWC to compile information from regional fisheries management organizations (RFMOs) on management and implementation of measures to regulate the use of FADs; and
• delete decisions 14.35 to 14.37.

Aquatic Wild Meat: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/ COP15/Doc.25.1.4; Inf.25.1.4a; and Inf.25.1.4b, noting a CRP was available following the aquatic working group’s deliberations (UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP25.1.4). Parties supported the draft decisions and the new ToR for the Aquatic Wild Meat Working Group.

BENIN, SENEGAL, CÔTE D’IVOIRE, and GHANA noted that unsustainable taking requires a socioeconomic response, citing linkages to poverty and food sovereignty. With LIBERIA, they called for increased capacity-building and resource mobilization to support the implementation of the Action Plan to Address Aquatic Wild Meat Harvests in West Africa. The EU and PANAMA called for strengthened cooperation with other MEAs, including CITES and IWC, that goes beyond information sharing. NEW ZEALAND described seabirds killed and eaten by vessel crewmembers, stressing the impacts on CMS-listed species and associated risks to human health.

Benin Environment and Education Society, for the AQUATIC WILD MEAT WORKING GROUP, lamented the lack of representative data provided by Parties regarding the regional action plan’s implementation. RARE CONSERVATION supported the draft decision’s recommendation to expand the establishment of regional action plans.

The CoW forwarded the CRP to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP noted recommendations in a report of direct take of seabirds, adopted ToR for the Working Group of Aquatic Wild Meat, and adopted decisions in UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP25.1.4 aiming to, inter alia, provide technical and capacity-building support to Range States of the Action Plan to Address Aquatic Wild Meat Harvests in West Africa; consider development of other regional action plans; implement mechanisms for co-management of seabird harvest with IPLCs; and establish structures to ensure collaboration. The COP deleted Decisions 14.186 to 14.193.

Marine Pollution and Other Threats: Marine Pollution: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.25.2.1/Rev.1. Noting that monitoring was a key capacity gap for SIDS, COOK ISLANDS, supported by NEW ZEALAND, FIJI, SENEGAL, SAMOA, and ACCOBAMS, stressed the importance of addressing land-based sources of marine pollution and plastic pollution, especially from fishing gear. ARGENTINA, with the DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, requested deleting reference to the deep seabed. UNEP highlighted established protocols for pollution from land-based activities. The CoW referred the item to the aquatic working group.

On Friday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP noted recommendations from the CMS Marine Pollution Workshop and adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP25.2.1, including a resolution that, inter alia, urges Parties to address sources of pollution and apply the precautionary principle with respect to deep-sea mining, and decisions encouraging Parties to facilitate cooperation with other agreements and conventions to address marine pollution risks and directing the ScC to establish a working group on marine pollution. The COP deleted Decisions 14.41 to 14.43 and 14.225b.

Underwater Noise: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.25.2.2/Rev.1. BRAZIL said vessel speed reduction should not yet be endorsed as a noise mitigation measure.

WILDLIFE CONSERVATION SOCIETY (WCS) urged for the precautionary approach and integrating underwater noise considerations into planning using existing CMS guidelines. The CoW referred the item to the aquatic working group.

On Saturday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP25.2.2/Rev.1, with decisions requesting Parties to assess impacts of underwater noise on freshwater mammals and develop or apply mitigation measures; requesting the ScC to develop guidance on mitigation of noise; and deleting Decisions 14.44–14.47.

Deep-sea Mining: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced documents UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.25.2.3, Doc.25.2.3/Add.1, and Inf.25.2.3. BRAZIL said this issue falls within the mandate of the International Seabed Authority (ISA) and could support voluntary, non-binding guidance in coordination with the ISA. FRANCE called for more scientific research, strengthening the link between CMS and ISA, and, with SOUTH AFRICA, PANAMA, DEEP SEA CONSERVATION COALITION, EU, GERMANY, and CYPRUS, the adoption of a precautionary approach.

ARGENTINA opposed, saying this topic is solely under the ISA’s mandate. The UK said they will not support deep-seabed mining licenses while data remains insufficient.

PANAMA noted effects could extend beyond national jurisdiction and thus should be coordinated by the CMS. NORWAY opposed, and with POLAND, said it can only take note of the report. WWF said the report’s recommendations “don’t go far enough.”

The CoW referred the item to the aquatic working group.

On Friday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP25.2.3, including decisions to facilitate research on impacts of deep-sea mining on migratory species, to raise awareness of the relevance of migratory species in discussions of deep-sea mining, and to produce a technical series publication on the impact of deep-sea mining on migratory species, which Parties are encouraged to disseminate. The COP deleted Decisions 14.51 to 14.53.

Marine Area-based Conservation Management: Priorities for Area-based Conservation of Marine Migratory Species: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.25.3.1 on progress toward identifying and preserving marine conservation areas. SOUTH AFRICA, WWF, IWC, and OCEANCARE underscored support for the document. AUSTRALIA proposed integrating amendments suggested in Doc.25.3.1/Add.1. The CoW referred the item to the aquatic working group.

On Saturday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP25.3.1/Rev.1, including a resolution requesting Range States and relevant partners to support the identification and validation of Important Marine Turtle Areas (IMTAs) and encouraging Parties to make use of IMTAs in planning processes, urging integration of area-based conservation tools and identifies sites in planning processes. The COP also adopted decisions inter alia, requesting Parties to make use of IMTAs and other important conservation areas when identifying habitats at risk and designing threat mitigation measures; encouraging Parties, intergovernmental organizations (IGOs), and NGOs to provide financial and technical support to help identify important areas; requesting the ScC to report on the long-term effectiveness of important areas and make recommendations to Parties. The COP deleted Decisions 14.57 to 14.64.

Vessel Strikes: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/ COP15/Doc.25.3.2, with Doc.25.3.2/Add.1. The UK suggested amending the document, among others, to clarify it does not apply to species with existing advice from IWC, which was supported by INTERNATIONAL FUND FOR ANIMAL WELFARE (IFAW) and OCEANCARE. SOUTH AFRICA noted the need for risk assessment, vessel speed management, and coordinated responses. KENYA called for focused technology transfer.

The CoW referred the item to the aquatic working group.

On Saturday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP25.3.2, with decisions requesting Parties to take actions to reduce the risk of vessel strikes on at-risk whales, including risk analysis of potential mitigation options and national regulations, and requesting the ScC to map shipping lanes against conservation areas and develop advice on rerouting measures. The COP deleted Decisions 14.48 to 14.50.

Conserving Seamount Ecosystems: On Wednesday, PANAMA and MONACO, as co-proponents, introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/25.3.3, noting the ecological importance of seamount ecosystems for migratory species and their vulnerability to destructive fishing practices such as bottom trawling. They outlined the ScC’s contributions to preparing the draft resolution and decisions.

COSTA RICA, PERU, ECUADOR, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC, NORWAY, BRAZIL, AUSTRALIA, EU, and FIJI noted their support for both the resolution and decisions; highlighted the critical role of seamounts and the opportunity to strengthen collaboration through data sharing, joint implementation initiatives, and adaptive management plans; and provided amendments in writing.

ARGENTINA called for textual amendments to ensure terminologies are in line with agreed definitions under RFMOs, and stressed the potential problems of addressing conservation matters in areas beyond national jurisdiction.

IUCN highlighted alignment with an IUCN resolution on the same matter and expressed their commitment to support this work. OCEANCARE, for several NGOs, emphasized that prioritizing seamount protection can contribute to safeguarding critical habitats for migratory species, and suggested amendments in writing. INSTITUTO BALEIA JUBARTE welcomed the role of the CMS alongside RFMOs in managing life in the Ocean, which they underlined is “more than just resources to be extracted.”

The CoW referred the item to the aquatic working group.

On Saturday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP25.3.3, including a resolution urging, inter alia, Parties to prioritize protection of seamount ecosystems and to conduct research on them. Adopted decisions requested, among others, Parties to prioritize protection and requested the ScC to collaborate with experts to identify vulnerable seamount ecosystems and review guidelines and management tools for conservation and research of these ecosystems.

Marine Mammals: Conservation Priorities for Cetaceans: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.25.4.1/Rev.1. Several Parties stressed the importance of building on existing expertise and avoiding duplication of work with the IWC and other bodies.

The CoW referred the item to the aquatic working group.

On Saturday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP25.4.1, including new decisions in which Parties are requested to, among others:

• include cetaceans within their respective NBSAPs, assess whether any take of Appendix I-listed cetaceans occurs within their jurisdiction, and increase data collection efforts for all CMS Appendix I-listed species for which they are Range States;
• assess the extent to which the welfare and conservation of cetaceans that occur within their jurisdiction is impacted by climate change; and
• prepare in advance for the appearance of out-of-habit cetaceans.

The ScC, subject to the availability of resources and where applicable, with support from the Aquatic Mammals Working Group, is requested to make recommendations to Parties after:

• synthesizing research on the emerging understanding of how cetacean welfare can impact conservation outcomes;
• in collaboration with the IWC, ACCOBAMS, and ASCOBANS, reviewing impacts of climate change on cetacean conservation and welfare;
• investigating the impacts of mass die-offs of cetaceans, including those linked to the presence of algal toxins; and
• undertaking, in cooperation with the IWC, a quantification of the contemporary whaling and aquatic wild meat takes of all CMS Appendix II-listed cetaceans in all regions.

The Secretariat shall support the ScC in this work, and investigate the development of a joint work programme with the IWC Secretariat on the conservation of cetaceans.

The decisions also address the role of cetaceans in ecosystem functioning, and request the ScC, through the Aquatic Mammals Working Group, to provide advice to the Secretariat with regard to work on this topic, and provide input to the IWC as needed. The Secretariat is furthermore requested to continue liaising with the IWC Secretariat regarding work on this matter.

Cetacean Action Plans: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.25.4.2 on action plans for: Cetaceans in the Red Sea Region; South Atlantic Whales; the Atlantic Humpback Dolphin; and the Arabian Sea Humpback Whale. The CoW recommended the item to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP noted: the summary and analysis of the Implementation Reports for the Action Plan for the Protection and Conservation of South Atlantic Whales contained in Annex 1; and the summary and analysis of the Implementation Reports for the Single-species Action Plan (SSAP) for the Atlantic Humpback Dolphin contained in Annex 2. The COP further endorsed the Conservation Management Plan (CMP) for the Arabian Sea Humpback Whale contained in Annex 3.

The COP also adopted new decisions and deleted Decisions 14.76–14.86.

On cetaceans in the Red Sea region, Parties are requested, with the support of the Secretariat and advice and input of the ScC, to develop an Action Plan and organize a regional workshop.

On the Action Plan for the Protection and Conservation of South Atlantic Whales, Parties are requested to report on implementation progress, and subject to the availability of resources, the Secretariat shall organize a regional workshop on building capacity for the Action Plan’s implementation.

For the SSAP for the Atlantic Humpback Dolphin, Parties that are Range States are requested to continue SSAP implementation activities and report on progress by COP16, with non-Range State Parties, IGOs, and NGOs requested and encouraged to provide support to Range States in implementing the SSAP. The ScC, through the Aquatic Mammals Working Group, is requested to review and synthesize information provided by Parties on the implementation of the SSAP, and provide guidance on further implementation to COP16. Subject to the availability of resources, the Secretariat shall convene a meeting of Range States and support the ScC in its activities.

For the CMP for the Arabian Sea Humpback Whale, Parties are requested to report on progress, encourage non-Party Range States to adopt the CMP, and to engage with the IWC if they are members. IGOs and NGOs are requested to provide support. The SC is requested to adopt the CMP, once finalized, in the intersessional period between COP15 and COP16, and the Secretariat shall continue collaborating with partners.

Marine Turtles: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/ COP15/Doc.25.5. KENYA noted the difficulty of requesting non-Party Range States to take actions. AUSTRALIA suggested ways to reduce the reporting burdens on Parties. The CoW referred the item to the aquatic working group.

On Thursday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP noted reports and recommendations on conservation actions and adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP25.5, with decisions encouraging Parties to review beach management guidelines to ensure sea turtle protection needs are met and to map nesting sites. The COP deleted Decisions 14.93 to 14.95 and 14.96 to 14.100.

Fish: Freshwater Fish: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.25.6.1/Rev.1 and Inf.25.6.1. PERU, SENEGAL, and EU supported the adoption of the proposed amendments and associated draft decisions. BRAZIL called for recognizing artisanal small-scale fishing. WCS strongly supported the increased attention to these fish. IUCN welcomed the recognition of rivers as essential migratory corridors. The CoW referred the item to the aquatic working group.

On Saturday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP25.6.1, including amendments to Resolution 10.12 taking note of the Global Assessment of Migratory Freshwater Fishes and requesting Parties to strengthen protections of migratory freshwater fish species. The COP also adopted decisions in the CRP in support of such actions, and deleted Decisions 14.110 to 14.113.

European Eel: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.25.6.2 and Doc.25.6.2/Add.1. The EU, with MONACO, supported the draft action plan for the European Eel. CITES noted action taken for the species under the Convention, including a draft decision to address illegal trade and sustainable management of the species. The CoW referred the item to the aquatic working group.

On Saturday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP25.6.2, with a resolution establishing the action plan for the European Eel, and deleted Decisions 14.106 to 14.109.

Sharks and Rays: On Thursday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.25.6.3/Rev.1, Doc.25.6.3/Add.1, and eight associated information documents (Inf.25.6.3a-h).

KENYA expressed concern about the report’s findings on the Oceanic Whitetip Shark (Carcharhinus longimanus), which indicated that the shark is still being caught and traded by CMS Parties. The CoW referred the item to the aquatic working group.

On Friday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP25.6.3, with decisions supporting the action plan for the Angelshark (Squatina squatina) and implementation of the Appendix I listing for the Oceanic Whitetip Shark. The COP deleted Decisions 14.101–14.105, 14.114–14.116 and 14.235–14.236.

Single Species Action Plan for the Northeast Atlantic and Mediterranean Sub-Population of the Tope Shark (Galeorhinus galeus): On Thursday, the EU presented UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.25.6.4/Rev.1, inviting Range States to provide expertise and funding for the SSAP going forward, and encouraged non-Party Range States to join this initiative. The document was forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted a resolution including the action plan and decisions supporting it.

Multi-species Action Plan for Amazonian Migratory Catfish: On Thursday, BRAZIL introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.25.6.5 and Doc.25.6.5/Add.1, saying coordinated action in the Amazonian basin is needed, as Amazonian Migratory Catfish support lives and livelihoods.

BOLIVIA, ECUADOR, PERU, VENEZUELA, EU, and the AMAZON WATER ALLIANCE supported the Multi-species Action Plan (MsAP), with many underscoring the use of Indigenous and local knowledge in implementation.

The document was forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted a resolution establishing the MsAP and decisions requesting Parties to implement actions included in the plan.

Avian Species Conservation Issues

Prevention of Illegal Killing, Taking and Trade of Migratory Birds: On Thursday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.26.1. GHANA, AUSTRALIA, CHILE, EU, and EAST ASIAN-AUSTRALASIAN FLYWAY PARTNERSHIP (EAAFP) expressed support. The CoW referred the item to the avian working group. On Friday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP26.1, with amendments to Resolution 11.16 (Rev.COP14), including proposed amendments to the ToR for an Asia Pacific Illegal Taking of Migratory Birds Intergovernmental Task Force and deletion of Decisions 14.119 to 14.129.

Preventing Poisoning of Migratory Birds: On Thursday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.26.2 and Doc.26.2/Add.1. The EU urged narrowing the mandate of the preventing poisoning working group to focus on the most important poisons. This item was taken up by the avian working group. On Friday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP26.2, with amendments to Resolution 11.15 (Rev.COP14) and decisions encouraging Parties to take steps toward the phase-out of lead ammunition and lead fishing weights, and deleted Decisions 14.134 to 14.136.

Flyways: Flyways: On Thursday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.26.3.1. Many comments focused on the potential development of a permanent flyway instrument, with MONGOLIA, BANGLADESH, EAAFP, and WWF among speakers noting concerns such as potential duplication of work and fragmentation of efforts. AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND, and COOK ISLANDS expressed support for exploring such an instrument. The CoW referred the item to the avian working group.

On Saturday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP26.3.1, including amendments to Resolution 12.11 (Rev.COP14) inviting Parties to explore the feasibility and potential benefits of establishing a flyway instrument, decisions encouraging development of a new CMS initiative for Americas Flyways, and deleting Decisions 14.137 to 14.142.

Seabirds and Marine Flyways: On Thursday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.26.3.2. AUSTRALIA noted the document’s alignment with the GBF, the Samarkand SPMS, and the BBNJ Agreement. The EU requested deletion of “inappropriately designed and/or sited” when referring to offshore energy and related infrastructure development among the threats to migratory seabirds in the draft resolution. The UK noted the current maps of the six global flyways risk limiting the applicability of CMS resolutions and decisions, while acknowledging this was being addressed in the avian working group. NEW ZEALAND thanked BirdLife International for their analysis of seabird tracking data and, regarding the UK’s comment, confirmed that the maps weren’t final.

BIRDLIFE INTERNATIONAL highlighted the six global marine flyways as a new framework for intergovernmental action. ASSOCIAÇÃO NACIONAL DE MUNICÍPIOS E MEIO AMBIENTE stressed the importance of assessing the cumulative impacts of every stage of offshore energy and related infrastructure development, from construction and operation to decommissioning. Highlighting that seabirds are among the most threatened groups of migratory species globally, with more than half of species in decline, SOUTH AFRICA stressed the importance of addressing fisheries bycatch. The CoW referred the item to the avian working group.

On Friday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP26.3.2, with a resolution advancing the seabird agenda, including formalizing marine flyways as a CMS concept, expanding the scope of the Flyways Working Group to include marine flyways, and approving decisions supporting the agenda.

Action Plans for Birds: Action Plans for Birds: On Thursday, CoW Chair Cherki noted that the three items on action plans for birds would be addressed as a package, and the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.26.4.1 and Add.1.The EU and EAAFP emphasized the need to improve concerted efforts through the action plans. The COOK ISLANDS stressed that action plans are important coordination tools that are most useful when they are implementation-ready. The CoW referred the item to the avian working group.

On Friday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP26.4.1, with amendments to Resolution 12.12 (Rev.COP14) advancing action plans for birds and decisions supporting these plans. The COP deleted Decisions 14.144–14.147.

Multi-species Action Plan to Conserve African, Eurasian and Australian Bustards (2026-2037): On Thursday, HUNGARY introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.26.4.2 on the Bustards MsAP.

SAUDI ARABIA noted the MsAP builds on the efforts of the South-West Asia Illegal Taking of Birds Task Force. MONGOLIA, EU, SENEGAL, BURKINA FASO, IUCN, and ASSOCIATION FOR THE CONSERVATION OF BIODIVERSITY OF KAZAKHSTAN supported the MsAP’s adoption and rapid implementation. The CoW agreed to the document.

Outcome: The COP approved amendments to Resolution 12.2 (Rev.COP14) adopting the Bustards MsAP.

Steppe Eagle Global Action Plan: On Thursday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.26.4.3 and Inf.26.4.3. KAZAKHSTAN, SAUDI ARABIA, INDIA, and UGANDA noted their support for the Steppe Eagle (Aquila nipalensis) Global Action Plan, stressing that the transboundary nature of threats to the species requires strong collaboration among Range States. CMS Executive Secretary Fraenkel provided a clarification regarding the financing of bodies and mechanisms established by the COP. The CoW agreed to the document.

Outcome: The COP adopted amendments to Resolution 12.12 (Rev.COP14), including the Global Action Plan for conservation of the Steppe Eagle.

Action Plan for Migratory Landbirds in the African-Eurasian Region: On Thursday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.26.5, Add.1, and Inf.26.5, noting a CRP was already available from the avian working group. The CoW submitted the CRP to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP26.5, with amendments to Resolution 11.17 (Rev.COP14) advancing the action plan and decisions urging Parties to engage in its implementation. The COP deleted Decisions 14.130 to 14.133.

Conservation of African-Eurasian Vultures: On Thursday, the Secretariat presented UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.26.6, Inf.26.6a, and Inf.26.6b, and noted a CRP was available following discussions in the avian working group.

GHANA, SENEGAL, and BURKINA FASO supported the draft decisions. The CoW forwarded the CRP to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP26.6, with decisions urging Parties and non-Party Range States to engage with and support the Vulture MsAP, and deleted Decisions 14.148 to 14.155.

Saker Falcon (Falco cherrug) Global Action Plan: On Thursday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.26.7, Add.1, Inf.26.7a, Inf.26.7b, and Inf.26.7c. CoW Chair Cherki noted discussions were already underway in the avian working group.

On Friday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP26.7, with amendments to Resolution 11.18 (Rev.COP14) on a management framework for the Saker Falcon and decisions aimed at closing data and information gaps. The COP deleted Decisions 14.157 to 14.160.

Internationally Important Raptor Areas: On Thursday, the Secretariat tabled UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.26.8 and Add.1. CoW Chair Cherki noted discussions were already underway in the avian working group. On Friday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP26.8, with a resolution establishing Internationally Important Raptor Areas (IIRAs) and decisions requesting Parties to support the identification of IIRAs.

Terrestrial Species Conservation Issues

Joint CITES-CMS African Carnivores Initiative: On Thursday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.27.1, noting discussions in the terrestrial working group had led to a CRP.

CHEETAH CONSERVATION FUND noted their support for the joint African Carnivores Initiative (ACI) and underlined an issue of resource availability under CITES, stressing the need to ensure the Initiative remains fully functional.

On Friday, the CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP27.1, with decisions requesting Parties and non-Parties that are Range States to the ACI to revise the programme of work as necessary and monitor the functionality of the ACI, reporting on progress at COP16. The COP deleted Decisions 14.161 to 14.166.

Sahelo Saharan Megafauna: On Thursday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.27.2, noting that discussions in the terrestrial working group produced a CRP.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP27.2, with decisions requesting:

• Parties and Range States to conduct research into whether naturally occurring extant populations of African Wild Ass remain in their territories and report findings to COP16;
• Parties that are Range States to the Sahelo-Saharan Megafauna Initiative to articulate the challenges encountered in the implementation of Resolution 9.21 (Rev.COP14) and the Roadmap for the Conservation of the African Wild Ass; and
• the Secretariat to, inter alia, share the Sahelo-Saharan Megafauna Funding Mechanism Concept and Strategy with the Range States and review the feasibility of the mechanisms and approaches proposed in the document.

Central Asian Mammals Initiative: On Thursday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.27.3 and Add.1, noting that the terrestrial working group had fully supported the document. The CoW recommended the item to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.27.3, with amendments to Resolution 11.24 (Rev.COP13) on the Central Asian Mammals Initiative (CAMI) and decisions requesting:

• Parties to conclude transboundary agreements to strengthen the conservation of specific priority transboundary conservation regions, as identified in the CAMI Work Programme 2026–2032;
• the SC to review and endorse changes proposed by Parties during the intersessional period to the CAMI Work Programme to reflect the listing of new species at COP15; and
• the Secretariat to, inter alia, identify synergies to enhance joint conservation goals, save costs and reduce carbon footprints when organizing meetings; produce and disseminate a brochure and a promotional video to raise awareness and understanding of the importance of the region for the conservation of migratory species and the role of CAMI and the Central Asian Flyway Initiative; and conduct workshops to, among other things, build the capacity and increase the awareness of decision makers and local communities.

Jaguar: On Thursday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.27.4/Rev.1 and Add.1, noting the available CRP. The EU supported the Regional Action Plan and sought clarification from the UNEP Latin America and the Caribbean Office on the availability of future funding for this work. After discussions on the item in the terrestrial working group, on Friday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP took note of the Regional Action Plan for Jaguar Conservation. The COP also adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP27.4, with amendments to Resolution 14.14 on Jaguar (Panthera onca) to, among others, request the CMS Secretariat to continue its joint work with the CITES Secretariat and others to facilitate strengthened collaboration among all Jaguar Range States, and decisions requesting:

• Jaguar Range States and other Parties, as relevant, to actively implement the Regional Action Plan for Jaguar Conservation agreed at the second Jaguar Range States Meeting in Mexico in September 2025, and, taking into consideration the discussions in the CITES SC, finalize and operationalize an intergovernmental platform for jaguars, as well as a monitoring system for the illegal killing and illicit trade of jaguars;
• the SC to review the new Joint CITES-CMS Programme of Work developed by the CMS and CITES Secretariats and provide guidance to achieve maximum practical impact; and
• the Secretariat to continue engaging with the CITES Secretariat in their CMS-CITES Joint Programme of Work to facilitate strengthened collaboration among all Jaguar Range States and maximize synergies and complementarity between the two Conventions to achieve maximum practical impact.

Cross-cutting Conservation Issues

Illegal and Unsustainable Taking of Migratory Species: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.28.1; comments from the ScC (Doc.28.1/Add.1); an analysis of illegal and unsustainable taking (Inf.28.1a); and a report on the impact of take and trade of migratory birds for consumption in Africa-Eurasia (Inf.28.1.b).

BRAZIL suggested language “urging” instead of “proposing” financial support. The EU opposed the reference to multiple systems of knowledge, concerned that it may equate these with science. ZIMBABWE said there was no value in emphasizing domestic-level drivers. WCS supported establishing a Global Initiative on Taking of Migratory Species (GTI), and the amendments proposed by BRAZIL and EU. KENYA welcomed a Global Initiative and urged a dual approach with strengthened enforcement and community inclusion. BORN FREE FOUNDATION suggested keeping the operative paragraph on wildlife repatriation. The Secretariat agreed to produce a CRP.

On Thursday, a CRP was presented to the CoW. AUSTRALIA outlined amendments, including a new paragraph urging Parties to engage with coordinating bodies of key user groups, such as hunting and fishing organizations. The Secretariat produced a revised CRP, which the CoW forwarded to the COP.

Outcome: The COP noted the review of cross-cutting aspects in Annex 1, the scoping analysis summary and recommendations in Annex 2, and the review on the impacts of take and trade of migratory birds for consumption in Africa-Eurasia in Annex 3.

The COP also adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP28.1/Rev.1, with amendments to Resolution 11.31 (Rev.COP14) and decisions requesting, inter alia, the Secretariat to develop a more integrated approach to effectively support Parties in addressing pressures from illegal and unsustainable taking of migratory species, including by, among other things:

• conducting an in-depth analysis of the scale of illegal and unsustainable take of migratory species listed on Appendices I and II;
• developing priorities for the work of the GTI during the intersessional period;
• supporting measures to address illegal and unsustainable taking of migratory species identified in the scoping analysis;
• conducting an online workshop on the utility of a scoreboard for a wider range of taxa and on means to improve weaknesses in enforcement systems; and
• convening a forum on illegal and unsustainable taking of species to showcase positive examples, existing challenges and solutions, as well as the role of the different CMS initiatives and instruments in supporting Parties in addressing these threats.

Ecological Connectivity: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.28.2/Rev.1, a survey on links with infrastructure (Inf.28.2a) and a concept note for the Global Partnership on Ecological Connectivity (Inf.28.2b).

BRAZIL and the EU supported the amendments to Resolution 14.16 on ecological connectivity and the draft decisions, providing amendments in writing, and SENEGAL supported these actions without further amendments. EAAFP urged considering ecological networks beyond corridors. The Secretariat agreed to produce a CRP.

On Wednesday, the CoW approved a CRP and forwarded it to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP28.2, with amendments to Resolution 14.16, and decisions requesting Parties give special attention to the issues in UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.28.2/Rev.1 when planning, implementing, and evaluating actions designed to support the protection, conservation, restoration and effective management of migratory species, particularly when, inter alia:

• identifying, prioritizing, designating, restoring, and managing protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures;
• evaluating the sufficiency and coherence of ecological networks; and
• monitoring ecological connectivity over time.

It further encourages Parties to identify transboundary habitats of CMS-listed species, which could be considered as transfrontier conservation areas (TCAs); requests the Secretariat to work with Parties and the ScC and other IGOs and regional organizations to promote, among others, ecological connectivity in general. The GEF is invited in its funding disbursements to support activities that will assist in taking forward the areas of work defined in the present Resolution. Decisions 14.194, 14.195, and 14.196b-d are deleted.

Transfrontier Conservation Areas: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.28.3. The EU welcomed the transboundary tool developed by UNEP-WCMC, although they noted low engagement in testing it. BRAZIL proposed streamlining reporting burdens. ETHIOPIA requested including examples of TCAs from their bilateral agreements with neighboring countries. SOUTH AFRICA opposed elements of the draft decision, citing inadequate consultation with Southern African Development Community countries. UNEP noted that any further investment and development of the tool must be done based on explicit demand and need. The Secretariat agreed to produce a CRP.

On Saturday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP28.3, with decisions that request:

• the ScC to establish a Working Group to determine potential target users of the pilot tool Identifying opportunities for transboundary conservation in consultation with Parties and other stakeholders and, inter alia, identify parameters and functions to be considered in the development of the tool in close consultation with target users; and
• the Secretariat to support the Working Group and assess the costs and benefits of further developing and maintaining the tool.

Communities and Livelihoods: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.28.4. BRAZIL suggested recognizing artisanal fishers and the vital role of IPLCs. The EU cautioned mandating the ScC with broad topics, given limited resources. WCS warned that the issues being addressed are not exclusively scientific. KENYA, with ETHIOPIA and SENEGAL, called for further consideration of human-wildlife conflict. The Secretariat agreed to produce a CRP.

On Thursday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP28.4/Rev.1, including decisions that direct the Secretariat to support Parties with implementing the ten Guiding Principles annexed to Resolution 14.17 on Community Participation and Livelihoods and the recommendations from the study, Potential for Community-based Wildlife Management in Central Asia, including to, inter alia:

• develop proposals to mobilize funding resources that integrate community-based wildlife conservation and management with sustainable livelihood opportunities;
• organize exchange visits for decision makers to successful community-based conservation initiatives; and
• organize and deliver targeted capacity-building workshops and technical support for community-based conservation initiatives.

The COP also directs the ScC to establish a dedicated working group that deals with scientific issues related to conflicts and coexistence between communities and CMS-listed species.

Wildlife Health: On Tuesday, the Secretariat presented UNEP/CMS/ COP15/Doc.28.5/Rev.1. ARGENTINA opposed any reference to the World Health Organization (WHO), from which it has withdrawn, and to the One-Health approach. BRAZIL requested the Secretariat facilitate resource mobilization for this work in partnership with relevant development banks. PERU called for referring to “highly pathogenic” avian influenza. UNEP said highly pathogenic bird flu underscores the importance of good climate and environmental health for people. BORN FREE FOUNDATION lamented the lack of recognition of the linkage between human health and animal welfare. The CoW Chair referred the item to the institutional and cross-cutting issues working group.

On Saturday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP28.5/Rev.1, with amendments to the Resolution 12.6 (Rev.COP14) on wildlife health and decisions that, inter alia:

• direct the ScC to update the ToR of the Working Group on Migratory Species and Health and, with the Scientific Task Force on Avian Influenza and Wildlife, have the Working Group provide recommendations on issues related to migratory species and health, as appropriate; convene a workshop to further develop the niche of the Working Group to maximize wildlife health impacts; and strengthen the mainstreaming of health into other ScC workstreams and CMS activities; and
• direct the Secretariat to develop a devoted section on the CMS website with resources and guidance to support Parties in implementing Resolution 12.6 (Rev.COP15).

Pastoralism: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.28.6/Rev.1, recommending extending the Working Group on Pastoralism’s mandate.

ARGENTINA stressed references to WHO-related processes and instruments should not be mandatory. The EU agreed to adopt draft decisions, provided a change suggested by the ScC is included. GLOBAL ALLIANCE OF RANGELANDS AND PASTORALISTS urged for evidence-based policies that support sustainable rangeland stewardship. The Secretariat agreed to prepare a CRP.

On Wednesday, the CoW approved a CRP for adoption by the COP.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP28.6, with decisions that direct:

• Parties to raise awareness of the importance of the conservation and sustainable use of rangelands for the conservation of CMS-listed species through communication, outreach, events and activities, collaboration, and educational materials and programmes;
• the ScC to extend the mandate of the Working Group on Pastoralism and CMS-listed Species and ask them to, in cooperation with the UN Convention to Combat Desertification, overlay maps of pastoral rangelands and key habitats of selected CMS-listed species; develop guidelines on sustainable pastoralism in migratory species’ habitats for decision makers; and prepare a draft Resolution on Pastoralism and Migratory Species for consideration at COP16; and
• the Secretariat to consolidate information from various CMS mandates related to interactions between pastoralism and CMS-listed species and develop tailored communication products to convey this information to relevant sectors and organizations, with the aim of promoting implementation.

Light Pollution: On Tuesday, the Secretariat presented UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.28.7/Rev.1. NEW ZEALAND noted the importance of addressing the growing threat of light pollution to migratory species. The EU suggested several amendments. The Secretariat agreed to prepare a CRP.

On Friday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP noted the report of the expert consultation meeting in Annex 2 of the original document and adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP28.7/Rev.1, with amendments to Resolution 13.5 on the CMS International Light Pollution Guidelines for Migratory Species to, inter alia, invite the ScC to monitor new evidence of the impacts of light pollution on migratory species and approaches to mitigation, including relevant regulatory approaches, and provide advice to the COP as appropriate.

Insect Decline: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.28.8/Rev.1. The EU urged promoting scientific research, and with BRAZIL, proposed retaining language from the Rio Declaration. BRAZIL also called for strengthening the scientific basis, extending monitoring, and integrating sectoral approaches to implementing decisions. The Secretariat agreed to prepare a CRP.

On Saturday, a CRP on insect decline generated discussion over the inclusion of Rio Declaration language, with BRAZIL underscoring that the key question concerned the inclusion of a reference to Principle 15 of the Declaration (the Precautionary Approach) or including the Declaration in its entirety. They underscored the Rio Declaration as an important dimension of sustainable development and relevant to CMS issues such as insect decline. BRAZIL further noted the opposition of other Parties to Global South delegations’ efforts to raise the principle of common but differentiated responsibility. They expressed their preference for referencing the entire Declaration without specifically naming principles, and for reopening the resource mobilization CRP, which was supported by ECUADOR and CHILE.

The EU called for removing the reference to Principle 15 and including a reference to the entire Declaration in the preamble of the CRP. The UK supported removing both references, also supported by AUSTRALIA, NORWAY, and MONACO, who urged against reopening discussions on resource mobilization. BRAZIL supported the proposal to delete both references, and the CoW forwarded the CRP on insect decline as amended to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP28.8/Rev.1 as amended, with amendments to Resolution 13.6 on insect decline and its threat to migratory insectivorous animal populations to, among others, promote scientific research and monitoring programmes on the cascading effects of insect decline on food webs and connectivity for migratory species.

Cumulative Effects Assessments: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.28.9/Rev.1 with draft decisions on cumulative effects assessments (CEAs).

SOUTH AFRICA, with UGANDA, noted only two Parties had responded to the notification requesting information on national policies regarding CEAs and requested further consultations. The EU suggested awaiting the outcome of ScC work on developing a CMS definition of CEA. The CoW Chair referred the item to the working group on cross-cutting and institutional issues.

On Friday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP28.9, with decisions that direct:

• Parties to integrate provisions for CEAs into relevant national environmental legislation with specific consideration for migratory species, particularly those listed in CMS Appendices I and II, and strengthen methodologies and criteria for identifying, evaluating, and mitigating cumulative impacts on CMS-listed migratory species and their habitats, including cross-border cumulative effects and effects in underrepresented ecosystems;
• the ScC to develop, subject to the availability of resources, guidance for the assessment of cumulative effects on migratory species, including the establishment of common standards and methodologies suitable for application across CMS Parties; and
• the Secretariat to support the development of guidance materials on the implementation of CEA for migratory species in collaboration with relevant stakeholders and expert bodies.

Infrastructure: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.28.10/Rev.1. BRAZIL suggested recognizing that the impacts of infrastructure are not uniform. The EU said it was premature to mention social impact assessments for animal culture given ongoing work on this matter by the ScC. The Secretariat agreed to prepare a CRP.

On Thursday, a CRP was discussed and minor amendments were requested. On Friday, a revised CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP28.10/Rev.1, which directs:

• the ScC to extend the Working Group and focus its work on, among others, developing technical guidance for adapting critical habitat criteria to migratory species, including ecological connectivity and subpopulation considerations, and to identify best-practice, cost-effective monitoring methods for infrastructure impacts on migratory species; and
• the Secretariat to, inter alia, compile and disseminate examples of adapted critical habitat methodologies incorporating ecological connectivity for migratory species; organize regional and national workshops to raise the awareness and build capacity with regard to infrastructure development that considers the needs and requirements of migratory species; and compile available information on the effectiveness of CMS-listed species-specific mitigation solutions.

Renewable Energy: On Tuesday, the Secretariat presented UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.28.11. The EU opposed a reference to “nature-safe design,” noting that renewable energy development will always entail risks despite best planning practices. The UK called for ensuring Parties’ actions are compatible with existing legal frameworks. IWC highlighted their joint research initiative with Australia to investigate the impacts of offshore renewable energy development on cetaceans. INTERAMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENSE stressed the need for meaningful participatory consultation with Indigenous Peoples and coastal communities to ensure the expansion of renewable energy is ecologically sound and socially grounded. The Secretariat agreed to prepare a CRP.

On Thursday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP28.11/Rev.2, with a new resolution on renewable energy, Resolution 11.27 (Rev.COP15), including ToR for the ETF, and decisions directing, among others:

• Parties to report on progress on implementing Resolution 11.27 (Rev.COP15) to the ETF meetings and/or through their National Reports;
• the ETF to review, update, and promote tools and guidance for assessing and mitigating the impacts of renewable energy and power line developments on migratory species across flyways and marine migratory routes; and
• the Secretariat to support the production of technical guidance tailored to the geographical, technical and species-related needs identified by ETF members.

Climate Change: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.28.12/Rev.1.

BRAZIL called for further clarifying the proposed modalities of the Decision Framework and suggested adding sustainable use to the list of core conditions under the Framework. The UK encouraged Parties to make active use of the Working Group on Climate Change’s outputs and tools. IWC, AUDUBON SOCIETY, IFAW, and BORN FREE FOUNDATION supported the breadth of work undertaken by the working group and at the expert workshop convened in early 2025, and suggested amendments in writing. The Secretariat agreed to prepare a CRP.

On Friday, in considering the CRP, the EU and UK requested deleting text on sustainable use, and the CoW recommended it to the COP as amended.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP28.12/Rev.1, including amendments to the Decision Framework of Resolution 12.21(Rev.COP14) to support the achievement of Target 3.4 of the SPMS, and decisions directing, among other directives:

• Parties to identify case studies on successful actions that have supported migratory species’ adaptation to climate change as well as on ecosystem services provided by migratory species that contribute to addressing climate change;
• the ScC to re-establish its Climate Change Working Group and update its ToR to undertake a horizon scan of potential impacts of climate change on migratory species, potential conservation actions, and how they can be pragmatically implemented; and to convene a workshop to identify migratory species most likely to be impacted by climate change, with a focus on those listed on Appendix I and species for which interventions might have wider benefits; and
• the Secretariat to engage and cooperate with other MEAs and organizations to provide information about climate change and migratory species.

Conservation Implications of Animal Culture and Social Complexity: On Tuesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.28.13/Rev.1.

KENYA noted a need to shift conservation practices toward protecting animal culture and social complexity. SOUTH AFRICA, with ZIMBABWE, called for a focus on species under threat. SOMALIA urged for capacity-building and increased cooperation and sharing of local and traditional knowledge in this emerging area of work. The Secretariat agreed to prepare a CRP.

On Thursday, the CoW considered a CRP. SOUTH AFRICA, with ZIMBABWE, opposed the inclusion of a reference to hunting. The COP-appointed Councillor suggested using the term “removals.”

On Friday, a revised CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP28.13/Rev.1, with amendments to Resolution on 11.23 (Rev.COP12) on the conservation implications of animal culture and social learning and decisions directing:

• Parties to consider the insights from the Expert Working Group on Animal Culture and Social Learning to enhance work under CMS instruments, emphasizing the conservation value of ‘cultural capacity’ in accordance with national circumstances and capability;
• Parties, IGOs, and NGOs to provide financial and technical support to the Expert Group on Animal Culture, specifically in relation to hosting an in-person workshop during the next triennium;
• the ScC to, among others, review the work under CMS to date on animal culture and social learning, including consideration of its relevance to implementation of the SPMS and to provide advice to COP16 on the direction of further work on this subject under CMS; and
• the Secretariat to, among others, convene an in-person workshop to assist the Expert Working Group on Animal Culture tasks.

Multiple Systems of Knowledge: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.28.14/Rev.1.

BRAZIL, with FIJI, called for engagement under the principle of free, prior, and informed consent. ARGENTINA asked that any reference to Indigenous and local knowledge be qualified by “where relevant.” The COOK ISLANDS underscored that engagement with IPLCs must be grounded in respect for rights and customary governance. PANAMA said Indigenous and local knowledge could lead to more efficient monitoring and improved conservation. IPLCs urged support for and promotion of connectivity among different knowledge systems. The Secretariat agreed to prepare a CRP

On Thursday, the EU requested additional time to consider the inclusion of a reference to implementing “in accordance with national circumstances” in the CRP on multiple systems of knowledge.

On Friday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP28.14, with decisions directing:

• the SC to, among others, identify where there may be opportunities to incorporate multiple systems of knowledge, including relevant Indigenous and local knowledge systems, in areas other than scientific and technical processes operating under the Convention; and
• the Secretariat to, among others, add a section on the CMS website on how relevant Indigenous and local knowledge holders can contribute to CMS key topics.

Appendices and Concerted Actions

CMS Appendices: Treatment of Species Included Within Aggregated Families Listed in Appendix II: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.29.1 on progress of listing Appendix II species within aggregated families. The CoW referred the document to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP directs the ScC to review the list of species in the annex to Resolution 14.19, on guidance on the treatment of species included within aggregated families listed under Appendix II, in advance of COP16, and make proposals for any revisions.

Maintaining Lists of Species Included in CMS Appendices: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.29.2/Rev.1. The CoW referred the document to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted decisions directing:

• Parties to inform the Secretariat about changes in their status as Range State of species listed in CMS Appendices;
• the ScC to re-establish, with appropriate ToR, its Working Group on maintaining lists of species included in CMS Appendices; and
• the Secretariat to, among others, update the CMS Species List database; bring to the attention of the ScC any cases where differences between data available to the Secretariat and scientific sources could not be resolved through consultations; liaise with UNEP-WCMC to support and provide recommendations with respect to the continued development of the CMS section of the Species+ database; and, in collaboration with the CITES Secretariat, develop a list of species included on CMS Appendix I annotated as to whether they are also on the CITES Appendices, taking into account possible differences in nomenclature used in the two Conventions, and publish this list on the CMS website.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature Updates: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.29.3/Rev.1. The EU urged that the updates be made on a regular basis. The CoW referred the document to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted amendments to the Annex to Resolution 12.27 (Rev.COP14) on taxonomy and nomenclature as contained in Annex 1 of this document; changes to taxonomy and nomenclature of species listed in Appendix I and II as contained in Annex 3; and decisions directing the ScC to:

• review the standard reference for terrestrial mammals as established by Resolution 12.27 (Rev.COP14) and make any recommendations for its update to COP16; and
• review the standard reference for birds as established by Resolution 12.27 (Rev. COP14) once the Avilist is completed as a unified checklist of the birds of the world, and make any recommendations for its adoption as the standard reference.

Species that Meet the Criteria for Listing on CMS Appendices: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.29.4/Rev.1 and noted that the working group on aquatic species is discussing a relevant list of migratory freshwater fish species. NEW ZEALAND expressed support for developing similar strategic lists for other taxonomic groups. The Secretariat agreed to prepare a CRP.

On Saturday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP29.4, with amendments to expand Resolution 14.20 from avian taxa to all species that meet the criteria for listing on CMS appendices, and decisions directing, among others, the SC to review the list of species in advance of COP16 and make proposals for any revisions; produce a report that identifies how CMS may support the conservation of migratory invertebrate species by considering which families or genera of invertebrates contain species that would meet the CMS definition of migratory; and develop equivalent lists for other taxonomic groups including freshwater fish.

Towards Harmonization of Taxonomy and Nomenclature: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.29.5, noting the draft decision was endorsed by the ScC, and contained a single amendment: to delete “external” from the phrase, “subject to the availability of external resources.” The CoW recommended the document for adoption as amended.

Outcome: The COP adopted a decision directing the ScC to review the utility of the Catalogue of Life as a potential harmonized repository for taxonomic and nomenclatural information, including evaluating the processes for updating nomenclature within the Catalogue of Life.

Amendment of Appendices I and II of the Convention: Guidelines for Preparing and Assessing Proposals for the Amendment of CMS Appendices: On Wednesday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.30.1/Rev.1 to recognize Indigenous and local knowledge when preparing proposals for appendices.

The EU asked the Secretariat to ensure consistent use of the term “Indigenous and local knowledge,” which is the focus of amendments suggested by BRAZIL, and supported by AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEALAND. AUSTRALIA noted the importance of prompts to indicate where Indigenous and local knowledge may be appropriate. CoW Chair Cherki referred the document to the working group on cross-cutting issues for further discussion.

On Saturday, a CRP was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP30.1, with amendments to Resolution 13.7, to:

• recognize that there are multiple systems of knowledge, including Indigenous and local knowledge, and that the consideration of additional knowledge systems alongside conventional science can provide insights on migratory species and management approaches;
• note that the term “Indigenous and local knowledge” also encompasses traditional knowledge and is commonly used in other environmental conventions;
• invite Parties, where possible, to include in proposals to amend CMS Appendices information sourced from multiple systems of knowledge, including Indigenous and local knowledge; and
• adopt the Guidelines for Assessing Proposals to Amend the Appendices, contained in Annex 1, and the Format for Proposals to Amend CMS Appendices, contained in Annex 2.

Concerted Actions: On Wednesday, the Secretariat presented UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.31.1/Rev.1, a document related to Doc.30.1/Rev.1, to recognize Indigenous and local knowledge when preparing proposals for CAs. BRAZIL suggested amendments to ensure consistent references to Indigenous and local knowledge. The Secretariat agreed to prepare a CRP.

On Thursday, a CRP (UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP31.1) was approved and forwarded to the COP for adoption.

Outcome: The COP adopted the amendments to Resolution 12.28 (Rev.COP14), which set out in the Guidelines to the Implementation of the CA Process that the inclusion of Indigenous and local knowledge about the species when preparing CAs is encouraged to inform the development of appropriate actions to improve the conservation status of the target species.

Amendment of CMS Appendices

Proposals for Amendment of Appendices I and II of the Convention: On Thursday and Friday, the CoW recommended all of the listing proposals for adoption by the COP with the exception of two withdrawn proposals: to list the Bukhara Deer (Cervus elaphus yarkandensis) on Appendix I (UNEP/CMS/ COP15/Doc.30.2.4) and to list the Angular Angelshark (Squatina guggenheim) in Appendix II (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.30.2.16). The COP adopted the following proposals on Sunday, adding a total of 40 species, subspecies, and populations to the CMS Appendices.

• Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) population of Zimbabwe in Appendices I and II (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.30.2.1);
• Striped Hyena (Hyaena hyaena) in Appendices I and II (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.30.2.2);
• Giant Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) in Appendices I and II (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.30.2.3);
• 26 Gadfly Petrel species, subspecies, and populations (Pterodroma spp.) in Appendices I and II (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.30.2.5/Rev.1);
• Flesh-footed Shearwater (Ardenna carneipes) on Appendix II (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.30.2.6);
• Hudsonian Whimbrel (Numenius phaeopus hudsonicus) on Appendix I (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.30.2.7);
• Hudsonian Godwit (Limosa haemastica) on Appendix I (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.30.2.8);
• Lesser Yellowlegs (Tringa flavipes) on Appendix I (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.30.2.9)
• Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus) on Appendix II (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.30.2.10);
• Ibera Seedeater (Sporophila iberaensis) on Appendix II (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.30.2.11);
• Thresher spp. (Pelagic Thresher (Alopias pelagicus), Bigeye Thresher (A. superciliosus), and the Common Thresher (A. vulpinus)) on Appendix I (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.30.2.12);
• Patagonian Narrownose Smoothhound (Mustelus schmitti) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.30.2.13);
• Scalloped Hammerhead Shark (Sphyrna lewini) in Appendix I (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.30.2.14);
• Great Hammerhead Shark (Sphyrna mokarran) in Appendix I (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.30.2.15); and
• Spotted Sorubim (Pseudoplatystoma corruscans) in Appendix II (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.30.2.17).

Concerted Actions

Progress in the Implementation of Concerted Actions: On Friday, the Secretariat introduced UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.31.2.

Outcome: The COP agreed to close the CA for the Great Bustard in Asia; to consider complete the CAs for Pallas’ Cat (Felis manul), Common Guitarfish (Rhinobatos rhinobatos) and Bottlenose Wedgefish (Rhynobatus australiae), and the Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae) of the Arabian Sea; and to extend eight CAs on:

• Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.31.3.1);
• Straw-colored Fruit Bat (Eidolon helvum) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.31.3.2);
• Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.31.3.3);
• Franciscana Dolphin (Pontoporia blainvillei) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.31.3.7);
• Blue Shark (Prionace glauca) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.31.3.15/Rev.1);
• Giraffe (Masai Giraffe (Giraffa tippelskirchi), Northern Giraffe (G. camelopardalis), Reticulated Giraffe (G. reticulata), and Southern Giraffe (G. giraffa)) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/CRP31.3.5/Rev.2);
• Antipodean Albatross (Diomedea antipodensis) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.31.3.9); and
• Sperm Whale (Physeter macrocephalus) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.31.3.6).

New Proposals for Concerted Actions for the Triennium 2026-2029: On Friday, the Secretariat presented UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.31.3/ Rev.1.

Outcome: On Sunday, the COP adopted eight new CAs:

• Striped Hyena (Hyaena hyaena) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.31.3.4)
• Lahille Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus gephyreus) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.31.3.8);
• Flesh-footed Shearwater (Ardenna carneipes) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/ Doc.31.3.10);
• Peruvian or Humboldt Pelican (Pelecanus thagus) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.31.3.11);
• Magellanic Plover (Pluvianellus socialis) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.31.3.12);
• Sand Tiger Shark (Carcharias taurus) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.31.3.13);
• Basking Shark (Cetorhinus maximus) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.31.3.14/Rev.1); and
• Devil and Manta rays (Mobulidae spp.) (UNEP/CMS/COP15/Doc.31.3.16/Rev.1).

Closing Plenary

The closing plenary convened on Sunday, 29 March.

Report of the Credentials Committee: The Chair of the Credentials Committee reported that, of the 76 countries registered, 60 credentials were accepted.

Report of the Committee of the Whole and Working Groups: CoW Chair Cherki confirmed that all reports had been approved by the CoW, and thanked the respective Chairs of the working groups.

Adoption of Resolutions, Decisions and Amendments to the Appendices: The COP adopted by consensus all resolutions, decisions, and amendments to the appendices forwarded from the CoW.

Adoption of the Report: The COP adopted the CMS COP15 report without amendment.

Closing Statements: Representatives of the regional groups provided closing statements. Uruguay, on behalf of CENTRAL AND SOUTH AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN, hailed Brazil’s leadership in organizing COP15 and called the outcome on resource mobilization “an important step toward addressing one of the major challenges of the Convention.”

The EU commended COP15 as “science-driven multilateral decision-making at work.” They highlighted outcomes on the European Eel, Tope Shark, Giant Otter, and the MsAP to Conserve African, Eurasian, and Australian Bustards, and thanked Executive Secretary Fraenkel for her hard work and dedication.

Zimbabwe, on behalf of the AFRICAN GROUP, underscored the importance of thinking about youth when making decisions with far-reaching implications, called for strong implementation after delegates leave the COP, and highlighted the critical impact of climate change on migratory species as well as climate resilient economies.

New Zealand, on behalf of OCEANIA, expressed their hope that the new listings of seabirds on the CMS Appendices will help elevate their renown and prevent them from sliding into extinction. They strongly welcomed the recognition of the value of multiple systems of knowledge at COP15, saying this will lead to more inclusive, informed, and impactful conservation action.

Monaco, for NON-EU EUROPEAN PARTIES, emphasized that COP15’s ambitious outcomes will strengthen the protection of migratory species and their habitats, and demonstrate the collective desire to achieve the common goal of protecting biodiversity for generations to come.

India, on behalf of ASIA, commended the progress made in delivering outcomes on ecological connectivity, and noted the importance of partnerships to advance collective efforts.

Cátia Gonçalves, a representative of Brazilian IPLCs, urged Parties to consider create a permanent space for IPLCs’ participation in these decision-making processes.

In his final remarks, COP15 Chair Capobianco underscored that CMS holds a unique place in the world of global governance, by “protecting not only what is ours, but also what belongs to no one—and therefore belonging to all.” Emphasizing our collective responsibility to the migratory species whose routes transcend our border, Capobianco invited all to join in the objectives of the Pantanal Declaration, before underlining that the Brazilian COP Presidency would endeavor to expand the membership of the Convention and build stronger bridges with other MEAs over the next three years.

Concluding her last COP as CMS Executive Secretary, Amy Fraenkel thanked Parties, stakeholders, partners, and the CMS team “for your humanity and friendship.” She highlighted key achievements during her time at the helm, including the production of the first SWMS report, the Samarkand SPMS, and mainstreaming the concept of ecological connectivity. Fraenkel also urged priorities for the CMS moving forward, including building more holistic approaches to wildlife management, more meaningful engagement with IPLCs, and increasing the number of Parties to the CMS. Calling CMS one of the most important international agreements on the environment, she noted that it addresses the same goals as the Rio Conventions—but from the valuable perspective of the extraordinary migratory species that move across countries, continents, and communities. “They also move us, touching our hearts and souls.”

Chair Capobianco gaveled the meeting to a close at 3:16 pm.

A Brief Analysis of CMS COP15

As the waters of the Pantanal ebb and flow, so did talks at the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP15) to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS). Meeting in Campo Grande, the gateway to the Pantanal—the world’s largest tropical wetland and among its richest and most vibrant biomes—delegates discussed a range of topics as vast as this ecosystem. Reflecting the growing recognition of the need to safeguard ecological connectivity, and ensuring such connectivity is functional, COP15 met under the theme, “Connecting Nature to Sustain Life.” Alongside the Convention’s overarching conservation objectives, also on the table were new Concerted Actions (CAs), driving the Samarkand Strategic Plan for Migratory Species 2024–2032 forward, increasing collaboration with other multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs), and addressing emerging challenges affecting migratory species, from insect declines to the impacts of infrastructure.

This brief analysis examines the negotiations in the context of global biodiversity governance and the continuing decline of migratory species, focusing on the progress made and what lies ahead.

“Terra boa não nega colheita”

– Good soil doesn’t deny a harvest

Pantanal communities have adapted to the rhythm of life in this ecosystem, experiencing constant fluctuations; they are used to harvesting during dry spells before seeing the soil replenished by the rains. Similarly, the CMS process uses the high waters of the COP to lay the groundwork for the next triennium to further the conservation of migratory species.

Compared to other MEAs, CMS is among the smaller conventions endeavoring to protect nature, yet it produces impactful outcomes, in part due to its strong scientific and technical focus. However, COP15 convened against stark realities laid bare in the 2026 interim report on the State of the World’s Migratory Species (SWMS), which revealed that 49% of CMS-listed migratory species have declining populations, with 24% facing extinction globally. Still, that same report noted improved conservation status for seven CMS-listed species, including the Saiga Antelope, Scimitar-horned Oryx, and Mediterranean Monk Seal, which now face reduced extinction risks as a result of CAs, habitat protection measures, and anti-poaching initiatives.

Delegates used the time of inundation provided by COP15 to good effect: over 50 decisions were adopted, including the addition of 40 species, subspecies, or their populations to the CMS Appendices. Key outcomes included the Multi-species Action Plan (MsAP) for Amazonian Migratory Catfish, a long-awaited step forward to protect this group of species so essential to food security and the health of freshwater ecosystems. The MsAP was timely, given the Global Assessment of Freshwater Migratory Fishes launched at COP15 reveals that 97% of the 24 species listed under CMS are threatened, with serious implications for economies and cultures worldwide. The assessment furthermore highlights key transboundary river basins where international cooperation will be required as Parties look to implement the report’s recommendations—the Amazon, the Nile, and the Danube, to name a few.

The intensifying push under the Convention for ecological connectivity and partnerships also bore fruit at COP15, as Parties formalized six major global oceanic seabird migratory flyways and the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on sharks gained a new institutional partner. CMS has also seen more regional collaboration on sharks, particularly among Latin American Range States, which led to new listings on Appendix I for all Thresher sharks—Pelagic, Bigeye, and Common—as well as the Scalloped and Great Hammerhead sharks, while the Patagonian Narrownose Smoothhound was listed on Appendix II.

COP15 also opened new fronts on efforts to safeguard species from illegal taking. The launch of the Global Initiative on the Taking of Migratory Species builds on a previous initiative addressing the taking of migratory birds, and delves beyond international pressures and into the domestic drivers of illegal taking.

The first SWMS report published in 2024 issued a stark warning that over two-thirds of CMS-listed species are threatened by illegal and/or unsustainable take. As one observer pointed out, action on this front requires national capacity-building as well as international cooperation to tackle “the far greater threat posed by domestic drivers than international trade.” Addressing these push-and-pull factors, COP15 set the scene for ensuring work in the next triennium continues effectively tackling the mounting pressures of fragmented habitats, climate change, and over-exploitation.

“Quem planta, colhe”

– Who plants, harvests

Just as the waters recede and the dry season returns to the Pantanal, the tandem roles of national implementation and international coordination were highlighted throughout the week. As the Convention approaches its 50-year anniversary in 2029, COP15 offered an opportunity for a temperature check—regarding synergies with other MEAs’ programmes of work, implementation capacity, and, as one delegate described, “making sure that CMS is up to date.”

With its core mandate on conserving migratory species and their habitats, and protecting the ecological networks connecting them, CMS is a key player in advancing the global goals of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). These include conserving 30% of land, waters, and seas by 2030, which as CMS Executive Secretary Amy Fraenkel emphasized, must be done through well-connected systems of protection—ecological connectivity, if you will. Crucial for advancing any of these objectives is the question of resources and capacity. The global biodiversity finance gap still looms large, and delegates tackled the question of how to achieve the Convention’s goals using the limited resources available.

Indeed, as discussions reflected throughout the week, CMS operates in a budget-constrained environment: 60 of its 133 Parties are in arrears, 41 of which with outstanding dues of three years or more. This restricts the breadth of work that can truly be undertaken. Being three or more years in arrears also limits the role Parties can play in guiding the Convention, as was seen during a rare vote on a proposal to amend the CMS Appendices—for Thresher sharks—where not all those in attendance were eligible to vote. The Brazilian COP Presidency, as they noted in their final words to the plenary, has promised to work toward bringing these numbers down and encouraging meaningful engagement in the Convention and its operations. In other words, provide Parties with the opportunity to reap what they sow during the COP every triennium.

Without adequate resources the seeds for implementation cannot grow. Following occasionally tense deliberations over the need to reflect Parties’ differing responsibilities toward mobilizing such resources within the resolutions and decisions coming out of COP15, working group negotiations eventually agreed to establish a baseline for the Convention’s future resource mobilization strategy. By assessing real implementation capacity, a rapid needs assessment will be conducted by the Standing Committee regarding what it takes to implement the Convention at the national level.

Parties agreed that this study should be completed within a year and consider both monetary and non-monetary resources, such as technical and technological capacities. They also ensured consideration is given to the special needs and circumstances of least developed countries and small island developing states. Having avoided cherry-picking from the Rio Declaration’s various principles in the outcome text for now, whether on common but differentiated responsibilities or the precautionary approach as called for in the Thresher shark listings (setting out that lack of full scientific certainty shall not be a reason for postponing cost-effective environmental protection measures), the results of this assessment may yet indicate the need for recalling the Rio Declaration more clearly in the future.

“Cavalo bom sente o caminho na água”

– A good horse feels the path even in water

As the waters rise with the reappearing rains, the COP turned to those with the knowledge and the know-how to guide it back to solid ground. Delegates lauded the Convention’s strong scientific and technical basis, led by the Scientific Council and an assortment of dedicated task forces and working groups. Indeed, their work underpins the impacts of CMS’ wide range of activities, from mapping migratory networks to engaging with partners from all sectors of governance and society on an ever-growing range of issues such as renewable energy and highly pathogenic avian influenza.

In keeping with the times, and building on the wealth of institutional knowledge, COP15 saw delegates formally recognize the value of multiple systems of knowledge, including Indigenous and local knowledge. “This change in the status quo,” Indigenous and non-Indigenous representatives alike emphasized, “will strengthen decision-making and implementation.” For the first time, a proposal to amend the CMS Appendices formally featured the contributions of non-Western science: an Appendix II listing for the Flesh-footed Shearwater, a species of migratory seabird, included a supporting document featuring the perspectives of New Zealand’s Indigenous Peoples on the species’ cultural and ecological importance.

While increasing international protective measures for species is a success by any right, many seasoned delegates stressed another metric of success: “downlisting,” rather than “uplisting” a species following ameliorations in its conservation status.

The only COP15 proposal to attempt this move from Appendix I to Appendix II was for the Bukhara Deer. This Central Asian species has seen a marked population increase from near-extinction levels in the 1990s thanks to work under the frameworks of the Central Asian Mammals Initiative and a dedicated MOU between four Bukhara Deer Range States. In Uzbekistan alone the population has reached over 3,000 individuals, which they stressed has now exceeded their country’s carrying capacity. A downlisting would recognize Uzbekistan’s success in reversing the species’ extinction risk while enabling them to explore conservation management approaches that reduce human-deer conflict.

Yet several Parties from the Global North strongly opposed the downlisting proposal, concerned this would “open the door” to illegal and unsustainable take. Observers remarked that a split-listing may have provided “a happy middle ground,” enabling sustainable species management where populations are abundant, while still affording high levels of protection in Range States where numbers are still recovering.

Ultimately, Uzbekistan withdrew their proposal and announced they will host a dedicated multi-stakeholder workshop on ecological connectivity in the region in September 2026—perhaps with a view to prepare a more robust downlisting proposal in the future. One veteran delegate, while admitting that the original proposal “wasn’t the strongest,” expressed concerns that this outcome sent the wrong signal. “We should be rewarding Range States for their conservation successes, not penalizing them. Imagine if Uzbekistan told the EU how to manage their wildlife?”

“No silêncio do mato, tudo fala”

– In the silence of the wild, everything speaks

Perhaps the greatest among the Convention’s strengths is its active stake in engaging with institutional partners, and in bringing non-Parties on board through MOUs and regional initiatives that proceed without delay following the COP’s conclusion. Such approaches are necessitated by the unique challenges of protecting migratory species whose journeys span the globe, and whose habitats cover breeding, feeding, and resting grounds scattered both within and beyond CMS Parties’ national jurisdictions.

References to expanding the Convention’s membership were made throughout the week, with the Brazilian COP Presidency eventually highlighting efforts to bring more Amazon Basin countries into the fold. Venezuela, despite being a non-Party, weighed in as a Range State on matters concerning the uplisting of the Giant Otter and on the MsAP for the Amazonian Migratory Catfish, speaking in support of both proposals in the Committee of the Whole. “It is in the interest of our country, as well as the whole region,” they said, “to cooperate on protecting this shared migratory species.” Alongside migratory fish, migratory birds will see non-Parties contribute to the COP15-established Initiative for the Americas Flyways. No North American countries are currently CMS Parties, but this Initiative is a step toward continental coordination on migratory bird species whose travels connect the Arctic circle to Patagonia.

COP15 resoundingly integrated the understanding of ecological connectivity throughout its outcomes, guided by the Global Partnership on Ecological Connectivity established at COP14. At the end of the day, when the sun sets on the Pantanal and the silence seeps in from all angles, it is time hear the nature that those gathered in Campo Grande are striving to protect and restore. Emphasizing that migratory species transcend nations, jurisdictions, and generations, COP15 Chair João Paulo Capobianco underlined the role of CMS in “protecting not only what is ours, but also what belongs to no one—and therefore belonging to all.”