Ramsar Convention

The Ramsar Convention is an international environmental agreement adopted in 1971 in the city of Ramsar, Iran, and entered into force in 1975. Its official title is the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance Especially as Waterfowl Habitat. This convention promotes cooperation among contracting states for the conservation and sustainable management of wetlands. Historically, the rapid degradation of wetlands and the decline in biological diversity, particularly from the mid-20th century onward, highlighted the necessity for such an international agreement. The Ramsar Convention has ensured international recognition of the value of wetlands and stands as a significant milestone in environmental protection policy.

Objective and Scope

The primary objective of the convention is to recognize internationally the importance of wetlands in terms of biological diversity and ecosystem services, and to ensure their conservation and wise use. Wetlands are not only critical natural habitats but also play vital roles in water purification, climate regulation, flood control, and economic activities.

The Ramsar Convention imposes the following core obligations on contracting states for the conservation of wetlands:

• Identification of Ramsar Sites: Member countries identify significant wetlands within their national boundaries and designate them as sites of international importance on the Ramsar List. Selection is based on ecological, botanical, zoological, hydrological and cultural criteria.
• Conservation and Management: The natural character of designated Ramsar sites must be preserved, sustainable use must be implemented, and potential harms must be minimized. Management plans are developed and applied accordingly.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: The ecological character of wetlands must be regularly monitored and any changes reported. This forms the basis for effective management and protection.
• International Cooperation: Contracting states exchange information and experience regarding the conservation and management of wetlands. Joint conservation programs are developed for transboundary wetlands.
• Public Awareness: The public must be informed about the value of wetlands and the importance of their conservation, and educational activities must be conducted.

Designation of Ramsar Sites and Criteria

The selection of sites included in the Ramsar List is based on internationally accepted scientific criteria. These criteria include the ecological functions of wetlands, their significance for biodiversity, and their role as habitats for threatened species. For example, wetlands that serve as critical breeding, migratory or wintering grounds for specific bird species, or that host endemic or rare plant species, are prioritized for designation as Ramsar Sites.

Türkiye’s Participation in the Ramsar Convention

Türkiye became a contracting party to the Ramsar Convention on 14 January 1994. Due to its geographical position, Türkiye hosts important wetlands of Eurasia and lies along critical migratory routes for waterfowl, enhancing its significance under the convention. Türkiye applies international standards in the identification, conservation and management of wetlands through its designated Ramsar sites.

Ramsar Sites in Türkiye and Their Importance

To date, more than fifteen wetlands in Türkiye have been included in the Ramsar List. These include Manyas Bird Sanctuary, Sultan Sazlığı, Göksu Delta, Uluabat Lake and Tuz Gölü, all of which are of major importance in terms of biological diversity and ecological functions. These sites are located along key bird migration routes and provide vital habitats for numerous endangered bird species. Additionally, wetlands contribute to the local economy through agriculture, fisheries and tourism.

Institutions Implementing the Ramsar Convention in Türkiye

In Türkiye, activities under the Ramsar Convention are carried out by relevant units of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. The ministry develops various strategies for the identification, conservation and management of wetlands, prepares and implements management plans for these areas. Furthermore, a specific structure exists to implement and promote the Ramsar Convention in Türkiye:

• Ramsar Türkiye National Committee: This is a multi-stakeholder body composed of government institutions, civil society organizations, academic circles and experts. The committee coordinates efforts for the conservation of Ramsar sites, strengthens national and international cooperation, and develops policy recommendations.
• Program for the Conservation and Management of Wetlands: Comprehensive programs are implemented in Türkiye for wetland conservation. These include ecosystem monitoring, pollution control, biodiversity research and public awareness initiatives.

The Role of the Ramsar Convention in Wetland Conservation in Türkiye

The Ramsar Convention has ensured the conservation of Türkiye’s wetlands according to international standards. Through the convention, the protection of the ecological character of wetlands, the promotion of sustainable use, and the balancing of regional development with environmental protection are key objectives. Türkiye regularly reports ecological changes occurring in these sites and updates conservation measures in accordance with its obligations under the convention.

The implementation of the Ramsar Convention in Türkiye has contributed to increased awareness of wetland conservation at regional and local levels, and has encouraged the development of policies for sustainable development and biodiversity protection.