Notification

Strengthening the Secretariat’s support for Contracting Parties’ access to GEF and GCF resources for wetlands

Date: 30.10.2025

To: Heads of Administrative Authorities and National Focal Points
In response to Contracting Parties’ calls for increased support in mobilising resources for wetland conservation and restoration, particularly through the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and the Green Climate Fund (GCF), the Secretariat of the Convention on Wetlands, with financial support from the Government of the Republic of Korea, has appointed a Wetland Finance Support Officer.
The Wetland Finance Support Officer serves as a dedicated focal point to support Contracting Parties in identifying and advancing opportunities for wetland conservation and restoration through international financing mechanisms, including the GEF and GCF.
During the 64th meeting of the Standing Committee, the Wetland Finance Support Officer engaged with delegates on the opportunities and challenges related to accessing GEF and GCF resources for wetland-related initiatives. Building on these discussions, the Secretariat will operate a ‘helpdesk’ to support Contracting Parties in securing GEF and GCF financial assistance.
Type of support provided:
  • Provide information on GEF/GCF funding processes and application procedures;
  • Share knowledge on existing GEF/GCF projects contributing to the implementation of the Convention;
  • Facilitate communication with GEF Agencies and GCF Accredited Entities based on thematic and regional expertise;
  • Facilitate and coordinate communication between Contracting Parties, Ramsar Regional Initiatives (RRIs) and International Organization Partners (IOPs).
Eligible recipients:
  • Contracting Parties eligible for GEF/GCF support;
  • Support may also be extended to NGOs only when working under the guidance of a National Focal Point (NFP) and upon the NFP’s request.
Support the Secretariat will not provide:
  • Technical or financial assistance for project preparation or development;
  • Intervention in national or interministerial decision-making processes regarding GEF or GCF matters.
Contracting Parties seeking assistance or clarification regarding access to GEF or GCF funding are invited to contact:
Ms Yejin Lee
Wetland Finance Support Officer
Secretariat of the Convention on Wetlands
+41 22 999 0367
 
The Secretariat remains committed to supporting Contracting Parties in accessing international environmental finance for the implementation of the Convention.
 
Secretariat of the Convention on Wetlands
28 rue Mauverney, CH-1196 Gland, Switzerland
Tel: +41 22 999 0170