COP15 Ramsar Convention on Wetlands

COP15 of the Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar Convention) takes place from 23 to 31 July 2025 in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

Wednesday 23 JulyThursday 31 July
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

COP15 of the Convention on Wetlands (Ramsar Convention) takes place from 23 to 31 July 2025 in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Under the theme ‘Protecting wetlands for our common future’, this event will bring together 172 government representatives to strengthen international commitments to conserve wetlands, which are essential for biodiversity, climate resilience and human livelihoods.

This conference, held every three years, is a major platform for defining the global priorities of the Ramsar Convention. It will enable the Contracting Parties to adopt resolutions aimed at improving the management, conservation and restoration of wetlands, while promoting the sustainable use of these vital ecosystems.

The choice of Victoria Falls as the host site underlines the importance of these ecosystems to local communities and their key role in regulating the climate and preserving biodiversity. The city, recently accredited as a Wetland City, has already taken concrete steps towards the sustainable management of its wetlands.

The conference involves representatives of the 172 governments that are contracting parties to the Convention, as well as a large number of local and international non-governmental organisations (NGOs) active in the protection of the environment, such as the Zimbabwe Environmental Law Association and ActionAid Zimbabwe. Research institutions such as CIFOR-ICRAF, intergovernmental organisations such as the International Network of Basin Organisations (INBO), as well as players from the private sector, local communities and civil society groups will also be involved.

The conference will address the following strategic issues:

  • Valuation of wetland values and services: adoption of resolutions to better understand and value the ecosystem services provided by wetlands.
  • Ramsar Convention Strategic Plan 2025-2034: development of a five-year plan to guide actions for the conservation and sustainable management of wetlands.
  • Strengthening the Convention’s visibility and synergies with other environmental agreements: promoting the Ramsar Convention and its objectives within the multilateral environmental system.
  • Integrating new technologies and traditional know-how: incorporating innovation and local knowledge into wetland conservation and management practices.
  • Equitable governance and effective conservation: promoting inclusive governance and effective management of wetlands as protected areas or other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs).
  • Sustainable livelihoods for appropriate use of wetlands: encouraging environmentally friendly behaviours and sustainable practices in the use of wetland resources.

More information on the event website