Monaco Elected Vice-President of the Mediterranean Action Plan Bureau

Monaco has strengthened its role in Mediterranean environmental diplomacy following its unanimous election as Vice-President of the Bureau of the Mediterranean Action Plan (MAP) during the 24th Conference of the Contracting Parties to the Barcelona Convention, held in Cairo from 2 to 5 December under the auspices of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

The Monegasque delegation was led by Tidiani Couma, Head of Division at the Department of External Relations and Cooperation. This appointment recognises Monaco’s sustained and active contribution to marine and coastal protection in the Mediterranean, as well as its longstanding support for regional environmental cooperation.

Strengthening regional governance

The Barcelona Convention provides the legal framework for Mediterranean countries to coordinate efforts on marine protection, pollution prevention and sustainable coastal development. The MAP Bureau plays a strategic oversight role, guiding implementation of the programme’s priorities. Monaco’s new position will therefore allow the Principality to contribute directly to shaping the region’s environmental agenda through 2027.

The Cairo conference was held under the theme “Blue Growth in the Mediterranean: Towards a Resilient and Sustainable Future” and coincided with several symbolic milestones, including the 50th anniversary of the Mediterranean Action Plan and the 30th anniversary of the current form of the Barcelona Convention. The discussions also came as the international community prepares for the entry into force of the BBNJ Agreement on high-seas biodiversity.

A broad and coordinated Monegasque presence

Monaco was represented by an extensive delegation reflecting the Principality’s environmental ecosystem. Alongside government representatives were members of the Prince Albert II of Monaco Foundation, MedFund, and several organisations headquartered in Monaco such as the ACCOBAMS Secretariat and the Pelagos Sanctuary Secretariat. Their joint participation highlighted Monaco’s role as a regional hub for Mediterranean environmental governance.

Priorities aligned with Monaco’s long-term commitments

Discussions in Cairo addressed subjects that have been at the heart of Monaco’s international environmental engagement for many years, including:

• marine biodiversity conservation

• reduction of marine pollution, including plastics

• strengthening and financing marine protected areas

• the value of marine ecosystems to Mediterranean economies

• the impact of human activity and climate change

• the importance of marine scientific research

• the contribution of civil society and foundations

These themes reflect priorities consistently promoted by H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco, who has made ocean protection a central pillar of Monaco’s diplomatic action.

A strategic responsibility at a critical time

The Mediterranean Sea contains exceptional biodiversity despite representing less than one percent of the world’s ocean surface. It also faces intense environmental pressures linked to pollution, overfishing, maritime traffic, coastal development and climate change. Within this context, Monaco’s election to the MAP Bureau strengthens its capacity to support collective, region-wide responses.

The Principality has built recognised credibility in this field through stable diplomatic commitment, the establishment of key institutions in Monaco and long-term financial support for marine initiatives, including MedFund, which contributes to the sustainable financing of marine protected areas across the Mediterranean basin.

Business-relevant and destination-relevant impact

For Monaco’s resident community, business sector and international partners, this appointment reinforces the Principality’s image as a trusted centre for environmental governance and sustainable innovation, complementing its role as a destination for responsible tourism, investment and scientific collaboration.