Review of Cooperation between the Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar, Iran, 1971) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO)

Abstract

In recent years, formal cooperation among multilateral environmental agreements, programmes and other initiatives has grown. There is an intricate web of memoranda of cooperation, joint work plans and the like, and initiatives to harmonise reporting requirements, terminologies and other standards, all of which is sometimes collectively referred to as the agenda on synergy.This report reviews progress with each of the elements of first Programme of Joint Work (PJW) adopted by the Ramsar Convention and UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) for the period 2002-2003. Appendix 1 presents a tabular summary of the findings of the review, following the structure of the PJW. This includes recommendations for how issues may be taken forward or adapted in compiling a second Programme. Appendix 2 follows the same structure and gives the detailed findings of the review. This includes an account of areas of linkage and measures undertaken, an analysis of compatibility and complementarity of relevant activities and products of the two institutions, an evaluation of past and potential future areas of cooperation, some comments on the approach taken in the 1st PJW, and recommendations, most of which are directed towards a 2nd PJW.Appendix 3 presents a suggested draft of a 2nd Programme of Joint Work, based on the recommendations in the review, for consideration and possible adoption by relevant governing bodies of each organisation.