The international wetland community converged on the picturesque shores of Lake Geneva in May 2026, marking a significant gathering for the Convention on Wetlands. This pivotal meeting, the 67th session of the Convention’s Standing Committee (SC67), served as a crucial follow-up to the high-profile COP15 held in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, in July 2025. During this intensive week of deliberations, government delegates, alongside experts and observers including representatives from Wetlands International, meticulously reviewed progress towards the ambitious global wetland goals and targets adopted at COP15. They shared invaluable experiences and expertise, and crucially, charted a course for enhanced implementation strategies. The gathering was marked by a spirit of collaboration and a shared commitment to safeguarding these vital ecosystems.
Building Momentum Post-COP15: A Review of Progress
The SC67 meeting provided a vital platform for Contracting Parties to the Convention on Wetlands to assess the momentum generated by COP15. The adoption of the new global wetlands goals and targets in Victoria Falls had set a clear, forward-looking agenda. SC67 served as the first major opportunity for nations to report on initial steps taken and to collaboratively address challenges and opportunities in translating these high-level commitments into tangible actions on the ground. The Convention on Wetlands, officially known as the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, is an intergovernmental treaty that provides a framework for national action and international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources. Established in 1971, it is one of the oldest and most respected global environmental agreements. COP15, the Conference of the Parties, is the apex decision-making body of the Convention, held every three years, where significant policy shifts and strategic directions are determined.
Partners for Wetlands Priorities: A Unified Voice for Action
A significant moment at the outset of SC67 was the opening statement delivered by Wetlands International on behalf of all six International Organisation Partners (IOPs) of the Convention on Wetlands. This collective voice underscored the critical role of civil society and international organizations in supporting the Convention’s objectives. The IOPs articulated three overarching priorities for urgent action:
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Addressing Root Causes: A central theme was the imperative to tackle the fundamental drivers of wetland loss and degradation. This includes a deep dive into financial mechanisms and economic decision-making processes that often overlook the intrinsic value and essential services provided by wetlands. The IOPs stressed the need for a paradigm shift in how economic development is pursued, ensuring that environmental costs, particularly those related to wetland destruction, are fully accounted for. This involves advocating for policies that incentivize wetland conservation and penalize destructive practices.
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Reconfiguring Human-Wetland Relationships: The statement emphasized the necessity of fostering a more harmonious and respectful relationship between humanity and wetlands. This includes exploring innovative legal and ethical frameworks, such as the emerging concept of "Rights of Wetlands," which recognizes the inherent value and ecological integrity of these ecosystems. Such approaches move beyond purely anthropocentric views, advocating for the legal standing of wetlands to be protected and restored.
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Investing in Wetlands as Critical Nexus: The IOPs highlighted the indispensable role of wetlands in achieving the targets of other Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs). Wetlands are not isolated ecosystems; they are interconnected water systems that flow through and influence climate action, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable development. By prioritizing wetlands in national and regional implementation plans, and globally in the context of major environmental conferences, their contribution to overarching sustainability goals can be maximized. This includes their crucial role in achieving the objectives set forth in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and in contributing to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
The IOPs later held a dedicated information session, offering a deeper insight into their ongoing initiatives. Notable progress was showcased across key implementation programs: the Freshwater Challenge, the Mangrove Breakthrough, and the Peatland Breakthrough. These initiatives represent targeted efforts to address specific wetland types and their associated conservation and restoration needs. The sessions provided a valuable forum for Contracting Parties to share their perspectives and for the IOPs to refine their strategies for greater effectiveness in achieving shared wetland conservation goals.
Wetland Indicators: Measuring Progress Towards a Sustainable Future
A landmark decision at SC67 was the formal adoption of the indicator framework designed to meticulously measure progress towards the targets of the Convention on Wetlands’ Strategic Plan for 2025-2034. This framework represents a significant step forward in ensuring accountability and guiding future actions. Its strength lies in its robust and explicit alignment with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, fostering synergy and avoiding duplication of efforts across global environmental agendas.
Key amendments to the framework introduced crucial flexibility. Provisions were made to differentiate more effectively between lost and degraded wetlands, allowing for tailored conservation and restoration strategies. Furthermore, the framework was enhanced to better align with targets focused on mobilizing finance and reducing harmful incentives, directly supporting the financial and economic reform aspects of the Global Biodiversity Framework. This alignment is critical for attracting the necessary investments and redirecting subsidies away from environmentally damaging activities.
In parallel with the indicator framework, SC67 also adopted the template for National Reports. These reports, due by December 7, 2027, will form the basis for a comprehensive global implementation report to be presented at the next COP, COP16. A draft guidance document accompanying the template was also presented, signaling an ongoing commitment to refine and improve the reporting process. The development of these standardized tools is essential for harmonizing national efforts and providing a clear, data-driven picture of global wetland conservation progress.
Waterbird Population Estimates: Safeguarding Migratory Species
Building upon the establishment of the Global Waterbird Estimates Partnership (GWEP) at COP15, SC67 took another crucial step by approving an update on progress and establishing a permanent GWEP International Coordination Committee. This development solidifies the foundation for a vital ongoing scientific endeavor.
While acknowledging the persistent funding gap that requires urgent attention, the progress made signifies that the GWEP is on a more secure footing. Its mandate is to provide long-term coordination, scientific and technical guidance, and resource mobilization for the production of Waterbird Population Estimates. These estimates are indispensable for effective waterbird and wetland conservation and wise use at both national and international flyway levels. They inform the designation and management of Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention and are fundamental to broader waterbird conservation initiatives. The GWEP’s work is intrinsically linked to the health of wetlands, as waterbirds are often key indicators of ecosystem well-being.
Science in the Spotlight: Advancing Wetland Knowledge and Application
Contracting Parties at SC67 enthusiastically endorsed a report detailing the vital work of the Scientific and Technical Review Panel (STRP), the Convention’s scientific advisory body. Plans to enhance the involvement of early-career researchers, promote the dissemination of STRP outputs, and expand collaborative networks were particularly welcomed. This focus on nurturing the next generation of wetland scientists and fostering broader engagement is critical for long-term knowledge generation and application.
The Parties also deliberated on a prioritized list of STRP tasks. Notably, four tasks highlighted by the IOPs in their opening statement were emphasized:
- GEOwetlands: This initiative leverages earth observation technologies for comprehensive wetland inventories, assessment, monitoring, management, and reporting. Such advancements are crucial for understanding the extent and condition of wetlands globally, particularly in data-scarce regions.
- Global Wetland Outlook on Cities: This ongoing project aims to produce a vital report on the state of urban wetlands, their challenges, and their contributions to sustainable urban development.
- Analysis of Transformative Change Pathways for Wetlands: This task explores innovative approaches to wetland conservation and restoration, including the integration of Other Effective area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs).
- Report on Wetlands and the Water Cycle: This critical report, slated for release at the UN Water Conference later in 2026, will underscore the inextricate link between healthy wetlands and global water security.
The strong support for these STRP tasks signals a commitment to evidence-based policymaking and the application of cutting-edge science to wetland management.
Cities and Wetlands: Integrating Urban Ecosystems into Conservation Efforts
SC67 received an encouraging update on the Wetland Cities Accreditation Scheme. This initiative recognizes cities that demonstrate a strong commitment to wetland conservation and wise use, fostering a global network of urban centers dedicated to these ecosystems. The scheme has already accredited 74 cities across 27 countries, highlighting a growing international recognition of the importance of urban wetlands.
Future roundtables of Wetland City Mayors are scheduled to take place in Valdivia, Chile, in 2027, and in Mechelen, Belgium, in 2028, signifying the sustained focus on urban wetland issues. Preparations are already underway for this year’s roundtable in Niigata, Japan, with a particular focus on rice paddies and the dual importance of urban wetlands for both waterbirds and human well-being.
As urban populations continue to expand, the Wetland City Accreditation scheme plays an increasingly vital role in raising public awareness and fostering education on wetland conservation. It also underscores the significant contribution of urban wetlands to global biodiversity targets, particularly concerning urban green and blue spaces, climate adaptation strategies, and the provision of essential ecosystem services. With the deadline for new applications approaching in December 2026, and the theme for World Wetland Day 2028 set as "Wetlands for sustainable cities" to align with the next wetlands COP in Panama City, interest and action in urban wetland conservation are poised for further growth.
Rights of Wetlands: A New Frontier for Ecosystem Protection
In an era where the Rights of Nature movement is gaining significant traction at local and national levels worldwide, SC67 saw robust discussions on the promising potential of Rights of Wetlands approaches. Panama, for instance, recently brought the rights of nature to the UN, underscoring the growing global dialogue. These innovative legal and philosophical frameworks offer an impactful pathway for wetland conservation and restoration, aligning with the urgent need for transformative change in our relationship with the natural world.
Building upon recent IUCN resolutions concerning the rights of rivers and the broader rights of nature, alongside the dedicated work of the Rights of Wetlands Initiative, there is strong support for the development of a new Draft Resolution on the rights of wetlands. This resolution, which could be brought forward by Contracting Parties to the next wetlands COP, represents a significant potential evolution in how wetlands are legally recognized and protected. Such an approach moves beyond viewing wetlands solely as resources for human use, acknowledging their intrinsic value and ecological rights.
Broader Implications and Future Outlook
Beyond these six key highlights, SC67 addressed a wide spectrum of critical issues. Discussions delved into the risks posed to wetlands and water security by the potential dilution of the EU’s Water Framework Directive, and the threats to High Andean wetlands from increased lithium mining. The indispensable role of Ramsar Regional Initiatives (RRIs) in driving cross-border implementation was further solidified, with welcome confirmation of new funding for the Southern African RRI and the Danube WILD Island RRI. Furthermore, the extensive work required in wetland finance was underscored, including the adoption of a resource mobilization plan, where IOPs are poised to play a significant supportive role.
With the next wetlands COP scheduled for Panama City in just over two years, the overarching focus remains firmly fixed on driving action and implementation at local, landscape, national, and regional levels. As International Organisation Partners to the Convention on Wetlands, stakeholders are looking forward to continued, enhanced collaboration with governments, the Convention’s secretariat, and an ever-expanding network of wetland partners from across society. The collective aim is to scale up wetland protection and restoration efforts, yielding profound benefits for people, nature, and the climate. The success of SC67 in Geneva has laid a solid groundwork for accelerated progress in safeguarding these indispensable ecosystems.
All documents from SC67 are available on the Ramsar Convention website. Further information can be found on the Convention on Wetlands website, and insights into Wetlands International’s aspirations for such meetings can be accessed via their resources.
