Side event details

Mediterranean wetlands are among the most biodiverse and ecologically significant ecosystems providing essential services to more than for half a billion people. However, they are under severe threat. During the last four decades, nearly half of the Mediterranean’s natural wetlands have disappeared, and freshwater biodiversity has declined by more than 28%. The loss of wetlands has significantly reduced flood regulation capacity in key river basins, while rising sea levels are projected to cause profound structural and functional changes in up to 70% of coastal marshes by 2100, severely impacting their associated activities and livelihoods. However, as Nature-based Solutions, these ecosystems are among our most valuable allies in tackling climate change and ensuring water security, food sovereignty, tourism growth, and socio-economic development in the Basin. Addressing these challenges requires strengthened regional cooperation and the promotion of innovative and science-based approaches for the conservation and restoration of Mediterranean wetlands.
The Mediterranean Wetlands Observatory (MWO) offers a science-policy interface which provides data and baseline information to monitor the status and trends of these ecosystems, supporting the work of MedWet. The side-event will focus on strengthening this science-policy interface by bringing together institutional representatives from Contracting Parties, researchers, and ONGs to discuss the current state of Mediterranean wetlands, explore key trends, and propose collaborative solutions tailored to national contexts. It will emphasize how scientific knowledge from the MWO can be effectively translated into policy decisions, supporting MedWet’s strategic objectives and national wetland policies to meet Ramsar commitments.

Objectives
•Disseminate key scientific findings on the status and trends of Mediterranean wetlands and their policy implications.
•Identify challenges and opportunities for science-based wetland conservation, restoration and management.
•Strengthen the science-policy interface to ensure that research findings inform decision-making processes at local, national, and international levels.
•Inform policymakers and practitioners on best practices and innovative solutions derived from scientific assessments.

Sessions
Setting the Stage (10’)
•Welcome remarks by key representatives (MedWet, STRP, Algeria, France and Turkey).
•Introduction to the MWO and its role in supporting the implementation of the Ramsar Convention in the Mediterranean Basin.
Key Findings from the MWO (30’)
•Overview of the latest trends in wetland status.
•Pressures and drivers of wetland degradation.
•Case studies showcasing successful science-informed conservation efforts and ongoing challenges.
Panel Discussion (15’)
•Exploring how MedWet can help promote and embed the tool with partners across the region.
•Interactive discussion on strategies for integrating scientific findings into policy frameworks.

Outcomes:
•Improved understanding among decision-makers of the need for science-based wetland protection measures.
•Strengthened regional and international partnerships to promote evidence-based wetland conservation policies
•Policy recommendations aligned with Ramsar resolutions, national wetland strategies, and regional frameworks.
•Increased engagement between scientists and Contracting Parties representatives, fostering long-term collaboration.