Nature knows no borders – CMS COP14

The HSF participated in CMS(Convention on Migratory Species) COP(Conference of Parties)14 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan from February 12 to 17, 2024. During this event, all aspects of international cooperation for conserving the migration of mammals, birds, fish, etc were discussed.

The global environmental crisis affects not only humans but also animals. Especially migratory species. These animals rely not only on specific locations but also on their so-called migration routes, wintering, and summering grounds, as well as their resting places. Therefore, they are susceptible to habitat loss and other threats. Hence, CMS COP14 took place to discuss solutions for the protection of migratory species collectively.

Approximately 1300 researchers, conservationists, and government officials met in plenary sessions and a variety of working groups and side events to discuss the status and guidelines for the protection of migratory species and their habitats worldwide.

HSF Korea office is working to contribute to the CMS Central Asian Flyway (CAF) Initiative as part of the global climate project for Northeast and Central Asia. The HSF participated in the event for the first time, alongside representatives from Mongolia, Korea, Uzbekistan and Central Asia.

The alliance of people for the protection of migratory birds encompasses many important aspects: preserving biodiversity, ensuring the well-being of local communities, and mitigating climate change.

Among the significant outcomes of COP14 are strengthened measures to combat the illegal and unsustainable removal of migratory species and new global guidelines addressing the impacts of light pollution on migratory species. Furthermore, Dr. Seliger, Dr. Choi, and Ms. Baek as members of the CMS Flyways working group are supporting the flyways initiative.