Bern Convention

Overview

The Bern Convention, formally known as the Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats, is an international treaty aimed at conserving wildlife and natural habitats in Europe and some parts of Africa. The convention was adopted by the Council of Europe in 1979 and has been ratified by 51 states, including the European Union. The convention is named after the city of Bern in Switzerland, where it was signed.

A photo of a natural habitat in Europe, showcasing diverse flora and fauna.

A photo of a natural habitat in Europe, showcasing diverse flora and fauna.

Objectives and Principles

The primary objective of the Bern Convention is to ensure the conservation and protection of wild plant and animal species and their natural habitats, particularly those species and habitats whose conservation requires the cooperation of several states. The convention promotes European cooperation for habitat conservation and emphasizes the importance of taking action to maintain the biodiversity of the European continent.

The Bern Convention operates on several key principles. These include the precautionary principle, which states that lack of scientific certainty should not prevent measures to prevent environmental damage; the polluter pays principle, which holds that those who cause environmental damage should bear the cost of mitigation or remediation; and the principle of sustainable use, which advocates for the use of components of biodiversity in a way and at a rate that does not lead to their long-term decline.

Provisions

The Bern Convention provides a framework for the conservation and protection of more than 500 wild plant species and 1000 wild animal species. It requires contracting parties to take appropriate measures to ensure the conservation of the habitats of the wild flora and fauna species, particularly endangered and vulnerable species.

The convention also includes provisions for the regulation of the exploitation of wild fauna, prohibiting all forms of deliberate capture and keeping, and any deliberate killing of birds. It also requires parties to coordinate their efforts in research and monitoring of the condition of wild flora and fauna species and their natural habitats.

Implementation and Monitoring

The implementation of the Bern Convention is monitored by the Standing Committee, which is composed of representatives from each contracting party. The Standing Committee meets annually to review the progress of the implementation of the convention, make recommendations on measures to be taken, and examine the proposals for amendments to the appendices of the convention.

The Bern Convention also established the European Diploma for Protected Areas, a recognition awarded to natural and semi-natural areas and landscapes of exceptional European importance for the preservation of biological, geological, and landscape diversity that are managed in an exemplary way.

Impact and Criticisms

The Bern Convention has had a significant impact on the conservation of wildlife and natural habitats in Europe. It has led to the establishment of numerous protected areas and the development of national and regional conservation strategies. However, the convention has also faced criticisms. Some critics argue that the convention lacks enforcement mechanisms and that compliance with its provisions is voluntary. Others point out that the convention does not sufficiently address the threats posed by climate change and other emerging challenges.

See Also

• Convention on Biological Diversity
• Ramsar Convention
• Bonn Convention