North Africa Programme 2017-2020 - IUCN · The UICN North Africa Programme 2017-2020 has been...

North Africa Programme

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Visitors at the Ichkeul National Park© IUCN/Irene Morell

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .......................................................................................................... 41. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND ............................................................................. 52. IUCN IN NORTH AFRICA .................................................................................................... 72.1 IUCN Members and partners in North Africa ..................................................................... 72.2 Results from previous programmes .................................................................................. 103. REGIONAL SITUATION ANALYSIS ................................................................................. 123.1 Overview of key biodiversity challenges and main actions implemented

in North African countries ................................................................................................. 12Overall situation: biodiversity status and trends in North Africa ...................................... 12Protected areas ............................................................................................................... 13Species assessments, protection and recovery .............................................................. 18Conservation and recovery of ecosystems ...................................................................... 20Addressing climate change and desertification .............................................................. 25Assessing and preserving ecosystems services ............................................................. 29

3.2 Main needs and challenges to address in the North-Africa programme 2017-2010 ........ 304. THE NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020: CORE AREAS, RESULTS AND APPROACHES .................................................................. 344.1 Core programme areas .................................................................................................... 344.2 Overview of the programme ............................................................................................. 35

PROGRAMME AREA 1: Valuing and conserving nature ................................................. 36PROGRAMME AREA 2: Promoting and Supporting Effective and Equitable Governance of Natural Resources .................................................................. 39PROGRAMME AREA 3: Deploying nature-based solutions to address societal challenges ................................. 41

4.3. Description of the programme: results and approaches .................................................. 43PROGRAMME AREA 1: Valuing and conserving nature ............................................... 43PROGRAMME AREA 2: Promoting and Supporting Effective and Equitable Governance of Natural Resources ................................................................................... 51PROGRAMME AREA 3: Deploying Nature-based solutions to address societal challenges ................................ 56

5. MODALITIES FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROGRAMME ............................ 61Working together .............................................................................................................. 61Efficient implementation and mobilisation of resources .................................................. 62Programme monitoring and reporting .............................................................................. 64

6. HUMAN RESOURCES NEEDED TO IMPLEMENT THE PROGRAMME ......................... 65ACRONYMS ........................................................................................................................... 66

There is little doubt that 2015 will be looked back upon as pivotal year in the relationship between people and planet. It will be seen as the year when the world finally agreed on a common vision for the future and demonstrated that the collective will to make it happen is there. But cautious optimism is warrant-ed. While the adoption of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the historic agreement in Paris to tackle climate change represent the end of an arduous journey, a new one every bit as challenging is barely beginning.

In many ways, the IUCN Programme 2017-2020 in North Africa represents a blueprint for realising many of the ambitions of the post-2015 agenda. The Pro-gramme embraces and assimilates the new momentum generated by the 2015 agreements and captures them in a programme of work that exploits IUCN’s strengths, taking advantage of the Union’s knowledge and reach to move agreements into concrete action. Moreover, the Programme breaks away from the once-widespread misconception that global challenges must each be ad-dressed separately, and instead recognises that environmental, economic and even political concerns often share direct and indirect drivers, and can similar-ly benefit from common solutions.

The Programme also reflects IUCN’s conviction that a steady increase in global wellbeing can only be achieved through an enhanced understanding of the planet’s complex life-support systems and the predominant global and regional trends currently acting upon them – urbanisation, economic growth, burgeoning consumption, disappearing biodiversity, wealth inequality, climate change, population growth and many others.

North Morocco coast© Miguel CC BY 3.0

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The IUCN Programme 2017-2020 in North Africa represents a blueprint for realising many of the ambitions of the post-2015 agenda

IUCN · NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 4

Flamingos in Tunisia© Mikhail Yablokov

The UICN North Africa Programme 2017-2020 has been elaborated in con-sultation and with the participation of all IUCN Members and Partners in North African countries. The Programme takes into account the aims of the Global IUCN Programme for the same period, the specific needs of North Africa as identified in the situation analysis and the results and recommendations of the IUCN Regional Conservation Forum for North Africa that was held in El Cairo, Egypt, in October 2015.

The Programme involves 5 countries (Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco and Tu-nisia) and will be implemented in close cooperation with all UICN Members, national authorities and national and regional partners’ organisations. The in-volvement of all IUCN Members and partners is crucial to achieve the expected results of the programme. They will also contribute with their own activities to the achievement of the main targets set in the programme. IUCN-Med and its partners will undertake concerted action to further strengthen and amplify their efforts in developing effective solutions for nature conservation in North Africa.

The current Programme builds on the work achieved in the previous pro-grammes (2008-2012, 2013-2016) and aims to contribute to implementing key international processes such as the Strategic Plan 2010-2020 for Biodiversity adopted by the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), and the post-2015 development agenda to reach, by 2030, the Sustainable Devel-opment Goals (SDGs).

1. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 · IUCN5

The programme has been prepared also taking into account the IUCN Mediter-ranean programme and the most relevant initiatives and strategies in the Med-iterranean region, in particular the UNEP/MAP Mid-Term Strategy 2016-2021 (MTS) and the Mediterranean Strategy for Sustainable Development 2016-2025 (MSSD). The MTS is meant to guide the path for the protection of the marine and coastal environment of the Mediterranean region to achieve Good Envi-ronmental Status, and the MSSD aims to harmonise the interactions between socio-economic and environmental goals, for securing a sustainable future for the Mediterranean region consistent with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Furthermore, a number of cooperation agreements have been signed between IUCN-Med and some national and international organisations for the imple-mentation of relevant actions in the Mediterranean region and in North Afri-can countries, which have been taken into account for the preparation of this programme. In particular, IUCN-Med implements a joint programme with the MAVA Foundation that aims to develop strategic actions to address key biodi-versity conservation challenges over the period 2015‐2019.

IUCN-Med has also signed agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) with international and regional organisations, as the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM-FAO), the Mediterranean Action Plan (UNEP-MAP) Secretariat, the Union for the Maghreb Arab, as well with na-tional authorities (HCEFLCD of Morocco, DGF Algeria, Ministry of Environment Italy, etc.), which identify common areas of interest and specific activities to be jointly implemented.

The Programme involves 5 countries (Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco and Tu nisia) and will be implemented in close cooperation with all UICN Members, national authorities and national and regional partners’ organisations.


2. IUCN IN NORTH AFRICA

2.1 IUCN MEMBERS AND PARTNERS IN NORTH AFRICA

The long-term goal of IUCN in North Africa is to preserve biodiversity compo-nents and restore degraded ecosystems. The development of knowledge and skills to achieve this goal is one of the constants and strengths of IUCN.

Following a recommendation from its Members in North Africa, IUCN started in 2009 a specific programme for the region, aimed at achieving the objectives of the IUCN’s Global Programme while taking into account the specific needs of North Africa.

The IUCN’s Programme for North Africa is coordinated by the Centre for Med-iterranean Cooperation located in the city of Malaga in Spain and is imple-mented in cooperation with all the IUCN Members in North Africa and with the participation and collaboration of relevant partners from the region.

Currently, IUCN has 25 Members in North Africa and many partners’ organisa-tions that contribute the implementation of the programme, as well as a number of relevant experts who are members of the IUCN Commissions providing sci-entific support and advice to projects and initiatives.

IUCN Members in North African countries (in 2016)

Algeria (3):

• Ministère des Ressources en Eau et de l’Environnement • Association Ecologique de Boumerdès• Mouvement écologique algérien

Egypt (4):

• El Maktab El Arabi Lei Shabab Wal Biah• Nature Conservation Egypt• Arab Network for Environment and Development• Center for Environment and Development for the Arab Region and Europe

Morocco (11):

• Haut-Commissariat aux Eaux et Forêts et à la Lutte Contre la Désertification• Association Moroccoaine pour l’Ecotourisme et la Protection de la Nature• Société Protectrice des Animaux et de la Nature• Association Ribat Al Fath pour le Développement Durable• Groupe de Recherche pour la Protection des Oiseaux au Morocco• Club Moroccoain pour l’Environnement et le Développement • Fondation EcoSylva • Association de Gestion Intégrée des Ressources• Association des Enseignants des Sciences de la Vie et de la Terre• Association Moroccoaine pour la Chasse durable• Association Moroccoaine pour la Protection de l’Environnement et le Climat


Tunisia (7):

• Ministère de l’Environnement et du Développement Durable • Alliance Femme et Environnement • Association Nationale du développement durable et de la Conservation de

la Vie sauvage.• Association Tunisianne pour la Protection de la Nature et de l`Environnement• Association Les Amis des Oiseaux • Fédération Nationale des Associations des Chasseurs et des Associations

de Chasse Spécialisées.• Association pour la protection de l’Environnement et le Développement

Durable de Bizerte

Partners – National organisations

• Algeria: Direction Générale des Forêts• Egypt: Ministry of State for Environmental Affairs • Libya: Environmental General Authority• Tunisia: Direction Générale des Forêts • Morocco: Fondation Mohamed VI pour la protection de l’Environnement

Partners – Regional organisations

• MAVA Foundation • Arab Maghreb Union • Regional Activity Centre for Specially Protected Areas (RAC/SPA),

established by the Contracting Parties to the Barcelona Convention • Critical Ecosystems Partnership Fund (CEPF).

Birdwatching Ichkeul © Tunisia Ecotourism


IUCN Commissions supporting the North Africa Programme

• Commission on Ecosystems Management (CEM)1

• Species Survival Commission (SSC)2

• Commission on Environmental Law (CEL)3

• Commission on Social, Economic and Environmental Policies (CEESP)4

• World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA)5

• Commission on Education and Communication (CEC)6

Number of experts from North African countries in the IUCN Commissions 2013-2016 (Source: IUCN Portal)

COMMISSION WCPA WCEL SSC CEM CEC CEESP TOTAL [Expert in commission/ country]

Egypt 14 2 13 15 12 3 59

Tunisia 11 3 15 7 0 1 37

Morocco 7 2 17 9 7 4 46

Algeria 6 3 18 9 5 1 42

Libya 2 0 5 1 0 0 8

TOTAL[North Africa]

40 10 68 41 24 9 192

TOTAL [Expert in the world]

2713 1475 10385 1271 1419 1332 18595

(1) https://www.iucn.org/about/union/commissions/cem/(2) http://www.iucn.org/about/work/programmes/species/who_we_are/about_the_species_survival_commission_/(3) https://www.iucn.org/about/union/commissions/cel/cel_about/(4) http://www.iucn.org/about/union/commissions/ceesp/ceesp_about/(5) http://www.iucn.org/about/work/programmes/gpap_home/gpap_wcpa/(6) https://www.iucn.org/about/union/commissions/cec/

Currently, IUCN has 25 Members in North Africa and many partners’ organisa tions that contribute the implementation of the programme, as well as a number of relevant experts who are members of the IUCN Commissions providing sci entific support and advice to projects and initiatives.


2.2 RESULTS FROM PREVIOUS PROGRAMMES

Since 2008, the IUCN Med has worked with government authorities, as well as local NGOs, academic institutions and the private sector to strengthen cooper-ation in the conservation of the Mediterranean’s natural resources. In order to guide conservation actions, IUCN-Med has provided training on extinction risk assessments of species, Identification and protection of important areas for bi-odiversity conservation, management planning and sustainable development.

The mid-term evaluation of North Africa Programme 2013-2016 showed that the projects and initiatives implemented have greatly contributed to the ef-forts for improving knowledge and promoting conservation of important biodiversity areas (KPAs, IPAs, MPAs, etc.), as well as developing tools and assessments that will assist better decision making on nature conservation and management of natural resources (e.g. GIS portals, databases, etc.). Some other relevant examples are presented below.

Capacity building for nature conservation and sustainable use of natural resources was addressed in a number of projects and initiatives undertaken in the previous programme, which included training activities, workshops, devel-oping guidance and networks, sharing information, experiences and know-how among different countries, organisations and relevant stakeholders. In particu-lar capacity building for species conservation was addressed through the adoption of a common methodology and training of regional and local conser-vation managers for the design and implementation of conservation strategies for threatened species in Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia. Capacity building for addressing climate change was also covered in a regional project (SEARCH) aimed at developing a resilience framework for local action planning capac-ities and methodologies to increase climate change resilience through joint learning, planning and testing by stakeholders in demonstration sites, involving several countries (Egypt, Morocco, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine).

The programme also paid special attention to improving governance through developing a situation analysis to identify needs and strengthen capacities of IUCN members and civil society in general on biodiversity and natural resourc-es governance. Some relevant examples include the analysis of governance for Marine Protected Areas carried out in Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia. In-formation and available tools to enable marine spatial planning and improve governance on the management and conservation of natural resources in the Alboran Sea were shared through the Geoportal ALBORAN7 dedicated to this important marine area, which involves three countries (Algeria, Morocco and Spain). The capacities of Mediterranean countries to implement Integrated Coastal Zone Management and apply the principles of the ICZM protocol have been strengthened through the development of a Shared ICZM Govern-ance Platform (PEGASO SDI).

(7) http://www.iucn-geoportalboran.org/en/


Awareness raising and communication activities on biodiversity values and conservation needs has also been focused in a significant number of projects that implemented relevant activities to share and disseminate information on biodiversity and ecosystems services among relevant stakeholders, including national administrations and civil society organisations. For example, aware-ness raising and communication about the MPA concept was implemented through a number of workshops for fishermen, national workshops on MPAs and consultation meetings with local authorities and users.

In contrast, more limited efforts were made in on-site conservation measures with relatively fewer projects implementing management and practical solu-tions on the ground, although these experiences gave special attention to the participation of civil society organisations and local stakeholders. A Small-Scale Initiatives Programme for Civil Society Organizations (PPI-OSCAN) in North African countries (Algeria, Libya, Morocco and Tunisia) supported field projects related to the conservation of biodiversity and sustainable man-agement of natural resources. The programme contributes to strengthen the capacities and the participation of NGOs and local stakeholders in sustainable use of natural resources and nature conservation, promoting the implemen-tation of pilot and demonstration projects related to traditional and innovative practices.

In the first Call for applications, 248 project proposals were received from as-sociations based in the four countries as follows: 57 proposals from Algeria, 10 from Libya, 75 from Morocco, and 106 from Tunisia. In the final selection 37 projects were approved: 10 in Algeria, 5 in Libya, 10 in Morocco and 12 in Tunisia.

Capacity building for addressing climate change was also covered in a regional project (SEARCH) aimed at developing a resilience framework for local action planning capac ities.


3. REGIONAL SITUATION ANALYSIS

3.1 OVERVIEW OF KEY BIODIVERSITY CHALLENGES AND MAIN AC-TIONS IMPLEMENTED IN NORTH AFRICAN COUNTRIES

A regional situation analysis was prepared to inform the development of the 2017–2020 North Africa Programme. This analysis aimed to identify the main conservation needs and challenges taking also into account the efforts under-taken in the countries and the main results achieved in recent times.

The biodiversity status and trends as well as the main actions undertaken for its conservation are well documented in the latest national reports submitted by the countries to the Convention on Biological Diversity (2014). These reports, together with other information available from the countries and other relevant sources (e.g. IUCN databases and reports, Mid-term evaluation of the previous North African Programme, etc.) provided the basis for the identification of the main challenges and opportunities that shall be addressed and seized in this programme.

Overall situation: biodiversity status and trends in North Africa

Due to their location in the confluence of several bio-geographical regions, the North African countries are home to a wide variety of ecosystems and terres-trial and aquatic life. Tropical, sub-tropical, Mediterranean and Atlantic envi-ronments harbour a unique biodiversity that contributes to the economy and supports human wellbeing.

We can distinguish seven major ecosystem types in the region: freshwater, marine and coastal, mountain, forest, steppe, Saharan and desert ecosystems and agro-ecosystems. These ecosystems include subtypes and habitats that are exclusive and very representative of the region, such as the oases, the Alfa (Stipa) grasslands, temporary rivers or wadies, the cedar forests and the coral reefs, just to mention a few of them. These ecosystems hold rich and diverse plant and animal communities, including many endemic species of the region.

As worldwide, the state of biodiversity is declining and the pressures upon it are increasing in North Africa. Biodiversity is deteriorating at the level of eco-systems, species and populations, and genetic diversity is also declining. The losses are due to a range of threats including habitat loss and fragmentation, overexploitation and unsustainable use of natural resources, pollution, inva-sive species and climate change. These pressures are driven by a range of socio-economic drivers, mainly the growing population and limited human and financial resources allocated to its protection. Climate change will act synergis-tically with other threats with serious consequences for biodiversity.

The degradation of biodiversity undeniably has an impact on the human well-being and economic welfare. Aware of these negative trends and their con-sequences, the North African countries have strengthened their efforts to halt biodiversity loss.


Significant progress has been recorded in the last decades in the consider-ation of biodiversity in national policies and strategies. A number of relevant strategies, programmes and legislative instruments have been adopted in the countries to enhance the conservation of biodiversity, including its integration into relevant sectors such as agriculture, forestry, fisheries and tourism. The countries are committed to the implementation of the main biodiversity relat-ed agreements, in particular the Convention of Biological Diversity (CBD), the Ramsar Convention, the Bonn Convention, the ACCOBAMS and the Barcelona Convention.

Many actions have been implemented to try to reverse the negative trends in biodiversity, such as designation of protected areas, implementation of con-servation strategies for threatened species and habitat types, recovery of eco-systems, strategies against invasive species, dissemination of best practices, awareness-raising, etc. key challenges for biodiversity conservation in the re-gion and some of the main efforts and actions undertaken to tackle the most important threats and are summarily presented below.

Protected areas

Protected areas are one of the most important and effective tools to conserve biodiversity, preventing the potential loss of species and habitats, as well as fulfilling the international commitments. All North African countries have in-creased the designation of protected areas (see current status in table 1) and are preparing strategies and setting mechanisms to improve their manage-ment.

As worldwide, the state of biodiversity is declining and the pressures upon it are increasing in North Africa.


Table 1. Protected areas in North African countries

COUNTRY Nr. PAs % coverage Protected areas (categories)

Algeria 78

44 % land area

1% marine area

• 9 National Parks of which 6 UNESCO-MAB Biosphere Reserves, 1 Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Importance (Barcelona Convention) and 1 World Heritage Site

• 4 Nature Reserves

• 1 Marine Nature Reserve which is also a Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Importance (Barcelona Convention)

• 4 Hunting Reserves, 5 Hunting Centres

• 5 Cultural Parks

• 50 Ramsar Sites, Wetlands of International Importance

Egypt 50

11 % land area

3% marine area

• 3 National Parks

• 2 UNESCO-MAB Biosphere Reserves

• 1 World Heritage Sites

• 2 Natural Monuments

• 13 Protected Areas

• 3 Protected Landscapes

• 5 Strict Nature Reserves

• 11 Multiple Use Management Areas

• 2 Nature Conservation Reserves


• 1 Marine Protected Areas

• 1 Developing Resources Protected Areas

• 1 Geological Protected Areas

• 1 Natural Heritage Protected Areas

Libya 24

0,3 % land area

1% marine area



• 14 Protected Areas


Morocco 323

34 % land area

1% marine area



• 4 Biological Reserves


• 1 Specially Protected Areas of Mediterranean Importance (Barcelona Convention)


COUNTRY Nr. PAs % coverage Protected areas (categories)

Tunisia 101

5 % land area

1% marine area



• 1 World Heritage Sites


• 4 Fauna Reserves

• 1 Not Reported

• 9 Natural Reserves


• 1 Bird Reserve

• 3 Specially Protected Areas of Mediterranean Importance (Barcelona Convention)

• 46 Important Areas for Bird Conservation (ZICO)

Source: World Database on Protected Areas (WDPA)http://www.protectedplanet.net and according to national authorities.

In spite of the numerous efforts made in the establishment of the protected are-as networks, there is a need to assess the completeness of coverage and sta-tus of existing protected area network and to identify additional sites to reach a representative network. Moreover, critical problems regarding the effective management of protected areas still exist, including the lack of sufficient and well trained staff and effective governance, under-funding and lost opportuni-ties to generate substantial revenues.

The involvement and participation of relevant stakeholders and local commu-nities in the management of protected areas should also be strengthened. Protected areas provide opportunities for improving natural resource manage-ment, income and employment for local communities, linking biodiversity and social development.

Some countries have recently enacted new legislation on protected areas that strengthen the involvement of relevant stakeholders in their management. For instance, Algeria adopted new legislation on protected areas in February 2011. The new Act has established a national Commission on Protected Areas, which brings together representatives of all the sectors concerned, experts and rep-resentatives of NGOs and which provides advice and opinion on new desig-nations.

In Morocco, evaluations of the protected areas network were carried out in 2008 and 2010, which provided relevant recommendations to improve the management of protected areas. In 2013, an analysis of the Master Plan of Pro-tected Areas towards 2020 (HCEFLCD, 2013)8 provided strategic guidelines

(8) Cadrage à l’horizon 2020 du Plan Directeur des Aires Protégées au Morocco (HCEFLCD & GIZ, 2013)


for the development of a coherent and representative network, as currently it does not fully represent all habitats and ecosystems present in the country. The majority of the national parks is located in forest and mountain areas. Wetlands and Saharan ecosystems are not well covered and there is a lack of protected areas on the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts. Moreover, a significant num-ber of sites are isolated being the distance between them is too big to allow their ecological connectivity.

Tunisia also carried out an analysis of the management effectiveness and ecological representativeness of its protected areas network in 2010, which provided guidelines and recommendations to improve the situation.

In Egypt, the main terrestrial biodiversity hotspots (St. Katherine, Elba, wet-lands and western Mediterranean coastal desert) and the most important ma-rine biodiversity hotspot (i.e. Red Sea coral reefs) are fairly covered by the existing protected areas and the distribution of most of the endemic taxa are included in these areas.


The designation of marine protected areas has also experienced some pro-gress in the last decades. Egypt is working towards a strategy for achieving a comprehensive and representative network of marine conservation areas. Tunisia expects to increase considerably the designation of marine protected areas after the promulgation of the corresponding legislation in 2009.

A recent project supported by IUCN in Morocco has led to the creation of 3 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) on Moroccan coasts with the involvement of local fishermen. The originality of the project lies in fact in the involvement of fishermen, who are the founders of the three and are also in charge of deciding which biding regulations will apply within these areas, such as the fishing gears that will be prohibited and the marine species for which fishing will be regulated.

Some other interesting experiences have been developed regarding the in-volvement of local communities and stakeholders in the management and conservation of protected areas. For instance, in Egypt local communities ac-tively participate in the medicinal plants project in St. Katherine protected area through partnership arrangements.

Ichkeul© IUCN/Irene Morell


Tunisia is currently exploring the possibilities for implementing effective management of protected areas through land stewardship involving NGOs and other relevant stakeholders.

Species assessments, protection and recovery

Species diversity is in decline and continues to be threatened by habitat de-struction, unsustainable use of natural resources, pollution, spread of invasive species and other particular threats. Conservation status assessments are not complete as only some taxonomic groups or species have been assessed in the North African countries. On the other hand, the rate of loss of genetic di-versity is poorly known and exerted efforts are still limited. Nevertheless, some important efforts to improve knowledge have been recently undertaken.

In Tunisia, for instance, a first Red List has been identified under a study con-ducted in 2010 (National Register of Wild Species, REIGNS) supported by the IUCN, which includes a first set of 213 terrestrial animal and plant species.

In Egypt, 364 species of the over 22,000 species described in the country had been assessed by the end of 2013, 41% (152 species) being endangered. In Morocco, about a half of the bird species is endangered.

Furthermore, species conservation strategies and recovery programmes have been prepared and are being implemented since recent years. In Tuni-sia, for instance, recovery programmes are ongoing with the support of IUCN for certain species like the Houbara bustard Chlamydotis undulata) the Barba-ry sheep (Ammotragus lervia), the Dorcas gazelle (Gazella dorcas), the scimi-tar oryx (Oryx dammah) and the Addax (Addax nasomaculatus), including the reintroduction of some species in national parks.

Action plans for the conservation of threatened species are also implemented in Morocco, as for Macaca sylvanus, the Great bustard (Otios tarda), the Bald ibis (Geronticus eremita) and the Cuviers’s gazelle (Gazella cuvieri). In addi-tion to the reintroduction programme of Addax, Scimitar-horned Oryx, Mhorr Gazelle and North African Ostrich into pre-Saharan reserves.

Captive breeding for several endangered species has been successfully car-ried out in Egypt, as for the scimitar oryx (Oryx dammah), the Arabian oryx (Oryx leucoryx), the Caracal (Felis caracal), the Dorcas gazelle (Gazella dorcas), the Crested porcupine (Hystrix cristata) and wild turtles (Testudo kleinmanni)

Efforts have also been undertaken in Egypt to recover some endemic flora spe-cies in their natural habitats and protect them from extinction. These involved the cultivation of some plant species in St. Katherine protected area, includ-ing Arfeja (Annarhinum pubscens), Zayteia (Septemcrenata nepeta), Alloseeg (Sailne shimperiana), Alghasah (Ballota kaiseri) and St. Katherine Thyme (Ori-ganum syriacum) and fenced areas to protect them from random grazing and other threats, as well as the reproduction of Nabq plant (Zizyphus spina–Chris-ti) known as the apple of the desert in Nabq PA, among other actions.


Among the main threats to species conservation, wildlife utilization is in general unregulated in the North African countries and excessive hunting is endan-gering a number of wild animals as well as several species of resident and migratory birds. Major exploited groups include mammals for wild meat and recreational hunting, birds for food and the pet trade, and amphibians for tra-ditional medicine and food. Uncontrolled plant collection is also threatened some species of medicinal plants.

Despite the current stringent regulations, illegal hunting continues to pose a serious threat to the maintenance of certain species such as gazelles, some birds or small carnivores such as the Libyan Striped Weasel (Ictonyx libycus). Other species as some snails, chameleons, turtles, scorpions and snakes un-dergo uncontrolled capture and taking threatening their populations (e.g. in Tunisia).

Invasive species continue to be a major threat to all types of ecosystems and species. Currently available information about invasive species is still insuffi-cient or is not readily available. Invasive species pose a major threat to marine ecosystems. The Mediterranean is home to several entries, particularly from the Red Sea, but also from the Atlantic. There are several introduced species, some of which are destabilizing the balance of marine ecosystems. For exam-ple, the white shrimp (Metapenaeus monoceros) would have appeared in the Gulf of Gabes (Tunisia) by 1994 and entered into competition with the local prawn (Penaeus kerathurus). Libinia dubia native crab of the American coast, has been reported in some areas off the Tunisian coast. Species introductions also affected marine plants. Caulerpa taxifolia, observed on the French coast since 1984, has also been reported in North African coastal areas.

Efforts to control and eradicate existing invasive species and to prevent the introduction of new ones still limited in spite of the fact that invasive species represent a real threat to ecosystems, to economy and to human health.

In Algeria, a recent project for the detection of Invasive Alien Species (IAS) will centralize and establish a list of invasive species and detect their introduction, as well as monitoring and reporting of the impacts on biodiversity and create a national network for early detection of IAS.

Combating invasive species is a challenge taking into account the countries’ current potential in terms of human, financial and technical resources, and re-quires participation of all involved agencies.

Efforts have also been undertaken in Egypt to recover some endemic flora spe cies in their natural habitats and protect them from extinction.


Conservation and recovery of ecosystems

Freshwater ecosystems (rivers, lakes and wetlands) often represent bio-diversity hotspots which are threatened by multiple pressures. Wetlands are some of the most important habitats in North Africa in terms of biodiversity, supporting both the greatest diversity and density of bird species, but are sub-ject to a variety of human induced threats leading to their degradation, which include drainage for their conversion into agricultural land and human settle-ments, water withdrawal for irrigation, building of infrastructures (highways, etc.), coastal erosion, invasive species, water pollution and overfishing. River systems have also been degraded drastically during the past 50 years, being significantly affected by water withdrawals and the construction of dams.

The future of these areas must be a key concern and the solution to their prob-lems can only be tackled with a multi-sector approach that should involve in particular local authorities, water sector institutions and the civil society.

Some relevant efforts are undertaken in North African countries, as the desig-nation of wetlands of international importance under the Ramsar convention in all the countries (see Table 2), the elaboration of the Strategy for the Conserva-tion of wetlands in Morocco and the national water strategy.


Table 2. Ramsar sites and other wetland protected areas in North African countries

COUNTRY Number of Ramsar sites and other wetland protected areas

Algeria 50 Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar sites)

Egypt 4 Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar sites)

Libya 2 Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar sites)

Morocco 24 Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar sites)

Tunisia41 Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar sites)

12 Wetland area of National Importance

Source : Base de données mondiale des aires protégées (WDPA). http://www.protectedplanet.net/

Coastal and marine ecosystems harbour a wide diversity of habitats, as sea grasses, coral reefs, mangroves, marshlands, costal dunes, etc. These habitats suffer from strong anthropogenic pressures and threats including unregulated tourism, sand extraction on the coast for building, unsustainable fishing prac-tices and coastal pollution. Trawling and overfishing are responsible for the degradation of important marine ecosystems. This is illustrated, for instance in Tunisia, by red coral stocks decrease from 25 tonnes in 1980 to less than 1 ton currently, or by the substantial decline in populations of some fish such as groupers, the alose in Morocco and the brown trout (salmo trutta fario).

The coastline is even more exposed to the risk of biodiversity loss due to hu-man pressure. At present, a significant percentage of human population in North African countries live in coastal areas, which are also visited annually by millions of tourists. For instance, around 90% of the population in Algeria lives in coastal regions that only represent 10% of the national surface area. In addition, a high proportion of the industrial activity occurs in the coastal zone. Coastal habitats have thus come under pressure from many forms of develop-ment including tourism, urban infrastructure and port facilities. The countries have adopted the strategy of Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM).

Some relevant projects have been carried out as the MEDINA Project: “Marine Ecosystem Dynamics and Indicators for North Africa”, supported by the Euro-pean Commission, which will help to develop long-term monitoring programs for the protection of coastal areas in North African countries.

Other relevant programmes and strategies are being implemented in Morocco, as the he National Strategy for Integrated Management of Coastal areas, and the Strategy for the development of marine protected areas for fishing purposes.

The MedPAN South Project (2008-2012) has implemented actions in Algeria, Libya and Tunisia to build capacity for the establishment of new Marine Pro-tected Areas (MPAs) and to improve management of existing ones.


In Algeria, the recovery of dune habitats was carried out in a project started in 2011 with the support and assistance of IUCN-Med. A catalogue of habitats and ecosystems of Algerian islands was also developed.

Drylands, steppe and arid areas hold valuable and fragile ecosystems, such as the Alfa grassland (Stipa tenacissima), which is experiencing a drastic re-duction in its distribution area in North Africa. The main threats to biodiversity in arid areas are habitat loss and land degradation due to overgrazing and to grassland conversion to accommodate seasonal agriculture. Overgrazing especially in the steppe regions in Algeria has removed many plant species including the Alfa, an important economic resource exportable once. A new threat is caused by gas and shale oil exploitation projects that could pollute soil and underlying aquifers.


Some integrated projects which tackle both desertification and biodiversity conservation started in recent years in southern Tunisia including the project of sustainable management of the oasis ecosystems. The actions were accom-panied by legal measures such as the enactment of a law on the protection of the oasis ecosystem and the genetic diversity of date palm (more than 250 local varieties). A study has also been carried out in Tunisia to estimate eco-nomic value of Alfa grassland.

A Strategy for the development and management of oases is being imple-mented in Morocco and several programmes for the conservation of oases are carried out in the framework of the national Rural Development Strategy, as the Programmes for the oases of the South, Tafilalet, Draa and Maider.

© IUCN/Irene Morell


Mountain ecosystems host a rich biodiversity with a large number of rare, threatened and endemic species. The loss of biodiversity in mountain areas is attributed to human activities, such as mining, overgrazing, hunting, logging, species harvesting, urban development and introduction of invasive alien spe-cies. Moreover, mountain ecosystems are among the most threatened by cli-mate change in the Mediterranean and are also subject to risk of catastrophic events, including mainly fires, and sometimes storms and flooding.

In Morocco, several programmes and projects implemented in the framework of Rural development strategies provide opportunities to address the preserva-tion of biodiversity in mountain areas, such as the Programmes for sustainable development of the High Atlas, and of the Rif mountain areas of Bouhachem, Tetouan, Larache, Chefchaouène, Middle Atlas, Khenifra, Boulemane and Azi-lal.

Forests in North Africa face several threats including overgrazing, overex-ploitation of resources, increase in forest fires and deforestation to convert land to other uses (agriculture, urban developments). Deforestation has had a serious impact in some countries. For instance, in Algeria between 1984 and 2003 the dense forests lost nearly a quarter of their original size (-22%). In Morocco, the Cedar and the Coak Oak forests as well as the Argania trees are highly coveted by locals for the value of the timber and its products (the third of the area has been lost since the Moroccan independence in 1956). In Tunisia forests suffer from overgrazing and overexploitation of resources. Furthermore, and particularly since the revolution of 14 January 2011, some illegal buildings have appeared in forest areas. In order to improve management of forest are-as and preserve their wealth, a forest and pastoral development strategy was developed in Tunisia (2014) and measures for the integrated management of forests are being implemented.

Climate events combine with human pressure and weaken some forest stands that show increasing signs of decline. In Morocco, bioclimatic analyses in the Middle Atlas have shown an increasing trend in temperatures and significant decreased rainfall accompanied by a downward trend in snow cover in the last decades. A dendrochronological study associated with this analysis high-lighted a loss of tree growth by 30%. These changes have weakened the ce-dar forests, which become more susceptible to diseases and pathogens and cause forest dieback more or less intense on several stands. Acacia stands in the south undergo a strong pressure due to the nomadic people who use them as a cooking fuel.

A forest regeneration programme is being implemented in Morocco since 1990 with a with a completion period of 30 years.

Agricultural habitats have also experienced degradation in terms of biodi-versity owing to changes and intensification of agricultural practices. Pollution from agriculture causes soil deterioration that leads to the degradation of criti-cal habitats and species loss. Excessive use and misapplication of pesticides causes loss of rare species including those that act as pollinators and natural


biological control agents. It also has a significant impact on freshwater, coastal and marine ecosystems in all the countries. On the other hand, Agricultural land continues to be lost to human settlements. Resistant and adapted varie-ties to climate aridity are lost to the benefit of selected but fragile varieties that consume a lot of water.

Pasture land is particularly under threat of degradation mainly due to over-grazing that results from an increase in livestock density coupled with a de-crease in pasture and grazing areas. For instance, Tunisia has the highest livestock density in North Africa, with over 40 sheep/km2. In Algeria, there are about 38 million sheep.

The intensification of crop and livestock production, along with the abandon-ment of rural areas, has caused the loss of genetic diversity. The continued loss in genetic diversity of crops and livestock may have serious implications on food security and other provisioning services. A good example of the loss of genetic diversity is illustrated by the great loss of cotton varieties in Egypt since the 1950s and the cereal in Morocco.

Some efforts are being undertaken in the North African countries to combat the loss of this agricultural genetic diversity as the implementation of the Strat-egy for the conservation and enhancement of genetic resources of cultivated plants and the National Strategy for Development of aromatic and medicinal plants in Morocco.

In Tunisia, the conservation of agro-biodiversity is addressed in the network of protected areas and through the National Genes Bank. Conservation meas-ures are accompanied by in situ activities with the participation of farmers in different areas of the country, in particular for the preservation of local varieties of durum wheat, for which Tunisia is a secondary centre of diversity. The en-actment of legislation for the protection of genetic resources of date palm and oasis ecosystems is also an example of the efforts undertaken in Tunisia for the conservation of agro-diversity.

Addressing climate change and desertification

Climate change is likely to exacerbate many of the risks associated with above mentioned stressors and reducing the choices open to individuals and policy makers. Climate change, drought events, desertification and erosion consti-tute a threat to ecosystems in all North African countries. Predictive models indicate a temperature increase of about 1 to 2.8° C and a decrease in rainfall of up to 104mm/year by 2050. Global warming is aggravating certain mecha-nisms such as fragmentation, degradation and loss of habitat, or the spread

Resistant and adapted varie ties to climate aridity are lost to the benefit of selected but fragile varieties that consume a lot of water.


of invasive alien species, which already represent a strong threat to the main-tenance of well-functioning ecosystems. Climate change thus threatens many ecosystems and species of flora and fauna in North Africa.

Some effects are already being noticed from climate change and especially the rise in temperature, the reduction of rainfalls and extreme events (fires, storms, and heat waves). For instance, migration of marine species is being detected in Tunisia, as indicated by the proliferation of thermophilic species that were formerly exclusive of the Gulf of Gabes (southern Tunisia) in the northern coasts of the country.


Given the vulnerability of Tunisia to climate change, the country has accorded priority attention to the prevention of global warming impacts on ecosystems, natural resources, human health, economic activities and development in gen-eral. A number of studies have been developed to improve knowledge, includ-ing vulnerability studies of the Alfa ecosystem in central Tunisia, of pastureland in the South and of Oak cork forests in the North of the country.

In Morocco, changes in forest species ranges, in particular the distribu-tion of insects and fungi, have already been noticed under the influence of global warming over last 30 years. The modification of distribution areas of

Traditional North Africa crafts© IUCN


herbaceous species of mountain ranges are also recognized. The caterpillar Thaumetopoea pityocampa is considered a new threat to the relict forests of Mediterranean pines subject to climate change. Major shifts in species phe-nology are also expected; for example an increase of 1° C in average air tem-perature would cause an earlier pollination date of palm trees in the oases and other fruit trees.

National strategies and responses to address climate change effects have been prepared in the North African countries. A Climate Change Adaptation Programme has been recently started in Morocco with the support of the GIZ, which aims to increase capacities and develop adaptation approaches to af-ford the risks caused by climate change.

Desertification, exacerbated by climate change, is also one of the major chal-lenges for biodiversity conservation as it contributes to the loss and degrada-tion of many habitats and ecosystems in North Africa. In Morocco, for instance it potentially concerns 93% of the national territory in arid climate where land loses its capacity for regeneration. Water erosion concerns more than 10 mil-lion hectares, while wind erosion affects all coastal areas, the southern and eastern regions of Morocco. National action Programmes to combat desertifi-cation are in place in the North African countries.

Programmes to combat desertification should be strengthened, including sup-port and enhancement of projects against desert progression in the circum-Sa-haran region (such as the Green Dam project in Algeria), which aim to reforest large areas in order to build a green belt that will act as a barrier against deser-tification and desert encroachment.

Desertification, exacerbated by climate change, is also one of the major chal lenges for biodiversity conservation as it contributes to the loss and degrada tion of many habitats and ecosystems in North Africa.


Assessing and preserving ecosystems services

The loss of biodiversity will ultimately impact the ecosystems functions and their ability to deliver essential goods and services. As a result, serious social, economic, cultural and ecological implications are expected. The continuing decline of biodiversity puts these crucial ecosystem services at stake, ultimate-ly affecting the well-being of human populations. The role of biodiversity in sup-plying ecosystem goods and services is gaining recognition among decision makers and social actors.

However, systematic quantitative assessments are needed to determine how changes in biodiversity would impact the provision of ecosystem services, or how the production of ecosystem services has impacted on biodiversity.

Some relevant studies have been recently carried out in the countries for the valuation of ecosystems services. For example, in Morocco, a study on the economic valuation of biodiversity and ecosystem services and the impact of climate change on these services has been conducted in the National Park Tazekka. The office of the Mediterranean programme of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the Agency of the river basin of Sebou carried out a study on the “Development of approaches to payment for ecosystem services (PES) for the conservation of lakes in the Middle Atlas in Morocco”.

In Tunisia, two studies have been conducted to determine the monetary value of Alfa grasslands (Stipa tenacissima) and for the economic valuation of goods and services of provided by the Tunisian forests. More recently in 2016, an assessment of the economic values of ecosystem services in Ichkeul National Park in Tunisia has been developed in the framework of a project funded by the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund.


3.2 MAIN NEEDS AND CHALLENGES TO ADDRESS IN THE NORTH-AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2010

Despite a significant increase in conservation efforts and some remarkable results (as clearly indicated by the expansion of the PA network and the im-plementation of biodiversity focused projects in some countries), further efforts are required to strengthen the legal and institutional frameworks for biodiversi-ty conservation, increase capacities for implementing the national biodiversity agendas in general, and raising public awareness at all levels.

Based on recommendations from the interim evaluation of the Programme 2013-20169 and from the Forum held in El Cairo in October 2015, the following main needs can be identified:

• Improve, share and transfer knowledge and technologies relating to biodiversity, using appropriate tools and developing new tools. Status as-sessments and consistent reporting should be improved in North African countries, where there is a strong need for baseline data. Initiatives that involve Mediterranean countries (Southern and Northern shores) should be increased to boost regional cooperation and technology transfer. The monitoring and assessment of biodiversity is not carried out systemati-cally and suffers from insufficient data and relevant indicators. The impact of conservation interventions on the risk of ecosystem loss or degradation, extinction of species and genetic diversity cannot be assessed due to the lack of monitoring programmes over a certain period of time. Comprehen-sive systems, such as national biodiversity observatories would help to im-prove knowledge and awareness about biodiversity status and trends in North African countries. Expert groups and networks would be useful to define, compile and consolidate the most relevant information.

• Increase awareness and understanding of critical issues for biodiver-sity conservation at all levels (from government to people) and in all economic sectors, to support decision making. Critical issues include bio-diversity values and ecosystems services, the consequences of biodiversi-ty loss for people, critical pressures and threats, effects of climate change, sustainability, food challenges, etc. Communication activities should be well targeted and use appropriate language to effectively reach the target public, including policy makers, managers, local stakeholders, the private sector and civil society, including young people and women. Effective tools should be used, including reporting tools, social media and direct commu-nication. Efforts should be made to reach business and development sec-tors and to strengthen linkages between conservation and socio-economic activities.

(9) The Mid-term evaluation of the North Africa Programme 2013-2016 was carried out in 2015 by external independent consultants under a contract with IUCN-Med and in consul-tation with all IUCN Members and relevant partners in North Africa.


• Enhance conservation of important biodiversity areas and threatened species, providing support and assistance to the countries to develop a coherent network of conservation areas, for the elaboration of conservation strategies for threatened species and implementation of priority measures. Updates of lists of protected species have yet to be completed and be sub-ject to a rigorous methodology for conservation status assessment. They must also be extended to marine species. Regulatory measures against offenders should also be enforced and amended in some cases.

• Reduce key pressures and threats on vulnerable ecosystems and pro-mote conservation and sustainable management of resources in eco-systems with particular importance in the region, including especially marine and coastal areas, but also arid areas, oasis, wetlands and fresh-water habitats, forests and mountain. Assessing impacts and integrating biodiversity values into spatial planning and development of economic ac-tivities is needed in order to preserve nature and prevent the loss of bio-diversity and the decline of nature-derived benefits. Marine conservation should be, as up to now, an important axis of the programme, considering the need to conserving the high seas and the areas recently listed as EB-SAs (Ecologically or Biologically Significant Marine Areas).

• Improve governance and capacities for nature conservation. Capacity building to improve governance should cover many different aspects (le-gal, institutional, financial, public participation) and involve all relevant part-ners: governments, local authorities, private sectors, civil society, women, young people, etc. Assessment and research about governance is also needed. Finding sustainable solutions to tackle the biodiversity challenges requires concerted action by all stakeholders, including civil society, which should act in partnership with the public institution.

• Capacity building for biodiversity conservation and sustainable man-agement of natural resources is a major need in many areas and at many different levels, from national agencies to local governments, NGOs and civil society organisations. Training and capacity building should cover the main issues addressed in the programme and also the capacities to develop the actions of the programme. Recent political developments in the region have brought an opening towards greater democracy and civil society participation. The associations are increasing and need to improve their inherent capacities as well as communication and exchange with their counterparts in other countries, especially in the Northern Mediterranean shore. Youth, enthusiasm and motivation of active members in the NA as-sociations are positive factors to be seized through training and coaching to enhance performance and efficiency of civil society in the region.


• Strengthen the participation of all relevant stakeholders and local communities in the actions that contribute to biodiversity conservation. Promote sustainable use of natural resources that deliver benefits to lo-cal communities and preserve the natural and cultural heritage, the land-scapes, etc. Priority should be given to areas that harbour threatened habitats and species, ecosystems that provide essential services for peo-ple and vulnerable ecosystems.

• Promote traditional best practice and local knowledge that are part of the cultural heritage in Mediterranean region and which support the conserva-tion of biodiversity and sustainable use of natural resources. Relatively few initiatives have been taken to maintain, protect, document and promote traditional knowledge as it relates to natural resource management.

• Improve the mainstreaming of biodiversity into other sectors. There is still limited evidence of biodiversity concerns being reflected in a se-rious way in the policies, legislation and regulations governing most of the productive sectors in the countries, and it is not reflected in the na-tions’ development agenda in many significant ways. Poverty alleviation and community development programmes should be used to promote and provide opportunities for improving natural resource management and employment for local communities by linking biodiversity and social de-velopment. There is also a need to improve synergy and coordination of actions between the various ministries and government departments for the implementation of effective policies and actions on nature conserva-tion. Harmonization between policies, strategies and national action plans of development is needed. Strengthen action on climate change, includ-ing a proper assessment of climate change effects in the Mediterranean region and its consequences for people and biodiversity (e.g. changes in ecosystems, species distribution, invasive alien species spread, food se-curity, desertification, land degradation, etc.). Promote actions to prevent risks and improve adaptation and increase resilience of natural ecosys-tems and mitigation measures, e.g. implementation of national adaptation strategies, promoting the use of renewable energies (mainly solar energy) in PAs, reforestation, habitats’ restoration, etc., and ensure climate jus-tice10. Nature-based solutions and traditional practices that contribute to better adaptation to climate change could be tested through pilot projects to demonstrate their effectiveness.

• Other global challenges should also be addressed, including food secu-rity (e.g. conserving agriculture and livestock varieties that are best adapt-ed to the conditions of African countries) and development (e.g. through promoting activities that generate income for local populations). Actions to improve knowledge, monitoring, control and management of Invasive Alien Species should also be supported and strengthened.

(10) I.e. the recognition that the countries of the North and South have “common but differ-entiated responsibilities” for climate change, and that their “respective capabilities” to deal are unequal.


• Finally, one of the major factors affecting implementation of national bio-diversity strategies and conservation actions include the lack of financial and human resources. The programme shall address the mobilisation of resources and seize all opportunities for project and programme funding. Co-financing along the lines of sustainable development should be encour-aged and could make an improvement of the funding opportunities for rel-evant actions aimed at nature conservation and sustainable development.


4. THE NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020: CORE AREAS, RESULTS AND APPROACHES

4.1 CORE PROGRAMME AREAS

As all IUCN’s programmes, the North Africa Programme builds on the “One Programme Approach” and is organized into three Programme Areas:

1. Valuing and conserving nature 2. Promoting and Supporting Effective and Equitable Governance of Natural

Resources3. Deploying nature based solutions to address societal challenges including

climate change, food security and economic and social development.

Under Valuing and conserving nature, IUCN will develop and use its knowledge on biodiversity, and its associated tools and planning standards, to influence policy and action on the ground. Under Effective and equitable governance of nature’s use, IUCN will consolidate its experience from working with people and institutions, addressing how public and private decisions on nature and ecosystems affect biodiversity and livelihoods. Deploying nature-based solu-tions to global challenges in climate, food and development expands IUCN’s work on nature’s contribution to tackling problems of sustainable development, particularly in climate change, food security and social and economic devel-opment.

These programme areas are essential for biodiversity conservation and for in-fluencing the economic, social and political processes that determine biodi-versity loss, ecosystem management, nature-based livelihoods, and rights and responsibilities for nature.

The Programme will seek to contribute to the delivery of the Sustainable De-velopment Goals, the Aichi Targets for biodiversity (Strategic Plan of the CBD 2011-2020) and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. Its expected results and targets are linked to the SDGs targets which they support and to the Aichi targets in the Overview of the programme presented below.


Figure 1. Contribution of the three programme areas to the delivery of some key SDGs

4.2 OVERVIEW OF THE PROGRAMME

The Tables presented below present the substantive elements of the IUCN’s North Africa Programme for the period 2017-2020 in regard of each of the three programme areas. These tables provide a broad overview of the results and the targets set to be achieved by 2020, while more detailed narratives introduc-ing the elements of each programme area and expected results are presented in the next section of the document (see section 4.3).

These tables also show the links between the expected results of this program and those of the IUCN Global Programme, as well as their contribution to the Objectives and Targets for Sustainable Development (according to the docu-ment adopted at the Summit on Sustainable Development held on September 25, 2015), and to the targets of the Strategic Plan for biodiversity 2011-2020 of the CBD (Aichi Targets).

This programme also aims to contribute to the decisions of the Paris Agree-ment on Climate Change11, mainly through the interventions included in the Programme Area 3.

(11) http://unfccc.int/resource/docs/2015/cop21/eng/l09r01.pdf

2030

Age

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for s

usta

inab

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ent

GENDEREQUALITY

5

REDUCED

INEQUALITIES

10

PEACE, JUSTICE

AND STRONG

16INSTITUIONS

PARTNERSHIPSFOR THE GOALS

17

CLIMATE

ACTION

13

SUSTAINABLE CITIES

AND COMMUNITIES

11ZERO HUNGER 2

NO POVERTY

1

LIFE15 ON LAND

LIFEBELOW WATER

14CLEAN WATER

AND SANITATIO

N

6

GOOD HEALTHAND WELL-BEING 3

Promoting& supporting

equitablegovernanceof naturalresources

Deploying nature-based solutions to address societal challenges

Valuing and conserving

nature


PROGRAMME AREA 1: Valuing and conserving nature

Result 1.1: Knowledge on biodiversity values, status and trends is im-proved, effectively shared and communicated to inform policies and deci-sion-making on nature conservation in North African countries

TARGETS INDICATORS

Contribution to IUCN Global

Programme results

Contribution to SDG Targets

Contribution to Aichi Targets

• By 2020, Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) are identified and assessed in North African countries, and knowledge is available to address their conservation.

• By 2020, national Red Lists of species and ecosystems are prepared in North African countries.

• By 2020 knowledge on the value, conservation status and trends of biodiversity is consolidated and communi-cated to influence policies, decision-making and action on nature conservation in North African countries.

• KBAs identified: marine, terrestrial, freshwater areas, IPAs, etc.

• Studies/assessments to address conservation management of KBAs.

• Red Lists of species and ecosystems available.

• Workshops, trainings, technical support.

• Dissemination of information: technical reports, web tools, social media, etc.

• Key sectors targeted by communications.

• Support to journalist network.

1.1, 1.2 2.5, 4.7, 6.6, 11.4, 12.a, 12.8, 13.3, 14.2, 14.5, 14.a; 15.1, 15.4; 15.5; 15.7; 15.8; 15.9, 17.6, 17.7, 17.9

1; 2; 5; 6; 8, 11; 12; 19, 20


Result 1.2: Representativeness and management of conservation areas in North African countries is improved

TARGETS INDICATORS


Programme results



• By 2020, more representative and coherent networks of protected areas are in place in North African countries

• By 2020, a more effective management of protected areas is achieved in North African countries

• Increase in coverage of protected areas of important sites for marine, terrestrial and freshwater biodiversity.

• Assessments of representativeness of protected areas networks.

• Management effectiveness of protected areas evaluated (e.g. using IUCN Green List criteria).

• Training, cooperation and experience sharing among site managers.

1.1, 1.3 6.6, 11.4, 12.2, 14.2, 14.4, 14.5, 14.b, 15.1, 15.2, 15.4, 15.5, 15.a, 17.3, 17.9, 17.17

5, 6, 7, 10, 11, 12, 13, 20


Result 1.3: Conservation of key species and ecosystems is strengthened through strategic planning and implementation of priority measures

TARGETS INDICATORS


Programme results



• By 2020, capacities for species conservation are improved and targeted conservation actions lead to the recovery of key species and ecosystems in North African countries.

• By 2020, planning tools and methodologies for addressing key pressures and to promote conservation and sustainable management of key ecosystems are developed and applied in North African countries.

• Conservation strategies for key species prepared and under implementation.

• Critical threats addressed, e.g. illegal/unsustainable hunting, power lines, overgrazing, etc.

• Expert groups and networks for species conservation in place

• Tools, guidelines and pilot actions for marine spatial planning and integrated coastal zone management (e.g. development of Alboran geoportal).

• Experiences on the integration of KBAs in spatial planning.

1.2, 1.3 2.4, 2.5, 4.7, 6.3, 6.5, 6.6, 12.2, 14.1, 14.2, 14.3, 14.4, 14.5, 14.7, 14.a, 14.c, 15.1, 15.2, 15.3, 15.4, 15.5, 15.7, 15.9, 15.a, 15.c, 17.3, 17.6, 17.9.

2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 20


PROGRAMME AREA 2: Promoting and Supporting Effective and Equitable Governance of Natural Resources

Result 2.1: Governance and institutional systems for effective manage-ment of important biodiversity areas are strengthened

TARGETS INDICATORS


Programme results



• By 2020, effective governance models are in place in important biodiversity areas in North African countries.

• Methodologies and approaches for assessing and improving natural resource governance are applied.

• Assessments of legal and institutional frameworks for biodiversity conservation and protected areas.

• Pilot actions and co-management schemes involving relevant stakeholders, CSO and the business sector in protected areas management and nature conservation.

2.1, 2.2 1.4, 1.b, 2.5, 5.1, 4.7, 5.5; 5.a, 5.c, 6.b, 10.2, 10.3, 12.2, 15.6, 16.3, 16.6, 16.10, 16.7, 16.b, 17.14

17.17

1, 2, 4, 13, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20.


Result 2.2: Participation and engagement of North African partners in re-gional and international initiatives and processes for biodiversity conser-vation and sustainable management of natural resources and strengthened

TARGETS INDICATORS


Programme results



• By 2020, capacities for the implementation of commitments under biodiversity-related conventions and international agreements are improved in North African countries.

• Cooperation in regional initiatives and programmes related to biodiversity conservation and sustainable use of natural resources is strengthened.

• Participation of North African representatives (administration and experts) in international and regional debates and initiatives.

• Cooperation activities with relevant regional organisations (GFCM-FAO, UfM, UMA, etc.).

• Revision of national legislation.

1.2, 2.3 1.b, 2.5, 3.9, 4.7, 5.5, 6.6, 6.a, 8.4, 10.b, 12.2, 14.c, 15.6, 15.a, 16.8, 16.b, 17.9, 17.14.

5, 6, 11, 12, 17, 20.


PROGRAMME AREA 3: Deploying nature-based solutions to address societal challenges including climate change, food security and economic and social development

Result 3.1: Capacity in addressing climate change and other global threats on important biodiversity areas and priority ecosystems is improved

TARGETS INDICATORS


Programme results



• By 2020, knowledge and understanding of climate change effects on natural ecosystems will be improved in North African countries.

• Capacities to carry out vulnerability assessments and adaptation strategies will be strengthened in important biodiversity areas.

• Documents on climate change effects on biodiversity and key sectors (e.g. fisheries, tourism) distributed to relevant organisations and stakeholders.

• Vulnerability assessments and resilience planning in important biodiversity areas.

• MPAs involved in the monitoring of invasive species.

3.1 1.5, 2.4, 4.7, 6.6, 7.2, 11.b, 11.4, 11.5, 12.2, 13.1,13.2, 13.3, 13.a, 13.b, 14.2, 14.3, 15.a, 15.b, 15.1, 15.3, 15.4, 15.5, 15.8, 15.9.

1, 2, 9, 10, 11, 14, 15, 20.


Result 3.2: Best practices on sustainable management and restoration of ecosystems that deliver essential services are promoted and disseminated

TARGETS INDICATORS


Programme results



• By 2020, knowledge and valuation of ecosystems services are improved and nature based solutions that contribute to the conservation and sustainable management of biodiversity and ecosystems are promoted in North African countries.

• Key sectors, as the fisheries and tourism sectors, are involved in sustainable management and nature-based solutions.

• Assessments of ecosystem services and their contribution to sustaining livelihoods.

• Dissemination of best practice in sustainable management and nature-based solutions.

• Pilot demonstration actions for restoration of degraded ecosystems.

• Initiatives of sustainable fishing practices in important biodiversity areas.

• Protected areas involved in eco-tourism promotion.

3.1, 3.2, 3.3

2.4; 2.5; 3.9, 4.4, 4.5, 4.7; 5a; 6.3; 6a; 6b; 6.4; 6.5; 6.6; 7.2; 11.b; 11.3; 11.4; 11.5; 12.a; 12.b; 12.2; 12.6; 12.8; 14.1; 14.2; 14.4; 14.5; 14.6; 14.7; 14.a; 14.b; 14.c; 15.a; 15.1; 15.2; 15.3; 15.4; 15.5; 15.9; 16.7.

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 18, 19


4.3. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROGRAMME: RESULTS AND APPROACHES

PROGRAMME AREA 1: Valuing and conserving nature

Result 1.1: Knowledge on biodiversity values, status and trends is improved, effec-tively shared and communicated to inform policies and decision-making on nature conservation in North African countries

Justification

Valuing and conserving nature is at the core of IUCN’s work. Credible and trusted knowledge on biodiversity is needed to influence policy and action on the ground. In North African countries there is a particular need for baseline data, status assessments and consistent reporting. The evaluation of the pre-vious programme highlighted the need to improve, share and transfer knowl-edge and technologies relating to biodiversity. Particular focus needs to be placed on identifying the most important sites for biodiversity on land and in the sea and on conservation planning for species and key ecosystems.

Knowledge about Mediterranean biodiversity has notably increased over the last decades, but it still suffers from significant gaps, in particular regarding the geographical distribution of species and habitats, genetic diversity, eco-

system functioning and socioeconomics, particularly in the case of wetlands and the marine environment, and especially in several eastern and southern regions of the Mediterranean basin. The UNEP 2012 report on the state of the Mediterranean marine and coastal environment identified additional gaps in terms of the ecological and environmental status of offshore areas, the impacts of human activity on marine and coastal biodiversity, and available mapping data (UNEP/MAP 2012a).

Furthermore, the existing knowledge about the status of biodiversity and its trends is heterogeneous and in some cases difficult to access. The available information is incomplete and as such, undertaking studies on regional biodi-versity requires consulting several different sources of information and statisti-cal data. This represents a major challenge for the Mediterranean region.

The lack of information sharing and the dissemination approaches within insti-tutions make it difficult for organisations to learn lessons from past practices

Particular focus needs to be placed on identifying the most important sites for biodiversity on land and in the sea and on conservation planning for species and key ecosystems.


and effectively plan, monitor, and evaluate their activities. Therefore, there is an increasing need for organisations to think and plan strategically for the ef-fective management and efficient use of information and knowledge resources.


Approach (means)

• Identification and assessment of Key biodiversity areas and other important areas for biodiversity conservation in terrestrial, freshwater and marine environments. KBAs are places of international importance for the conservation of biodiversity through protected areas and other governance mechanisms. They are identified nationally using simple, standard criteria, based on their importance in maintaining species populations. Key biodiversity areas are the starting point for conservation planning at landscape level. A number of KBAs have been identified so far in North Africa including 43 key freshwater biodiversity sites (88% of them located outside protected areas). Work should continue in this programme

Ichkeul flora© Sejir CC BY 3.0


and should be particularly strengthened to identify biodiversity hotspots and important areas for conservation in North African countries. The identification and assessment of these areas will be carried out through a consultation process involving scientists, conservation practitioners, experts of governmental agencies and IUCN Members.

• Encourage and support the elaboration of national Red Lists of species and ecosystems. An essential component in assessing and identifying species extinction risk is the use of National and Regional Red List assessments. Red Lists are a basic tool to encourage and assist conservation prioritisation and action. The programme will encourage and support the elaboration of national Red lists of species and ecosystems through training and support for the development of expertise in assessing and identifying species extinction risk and evaluation of the risk of collapse of key ecosystems. IUCN-Med has significant experience in providing support and assistance to the development of Red lists of species. Parallel to the work on Red Lists of Threatened Species in North African countries, IUCN‐Med will promote the contribution of scientists from the region to the IUCN global initiative on the elaboration of a classification system for threatened ecosystems (Red List of Ecosystems). To this end, it will support the participation of scientists in workshops and working groups convened on this subject at global and Mediterranean levels. Furthermore, IUCN‐Med will build on the results and lessons learnt from the pilot phase developed in Morocco (2013‐2014) on the establishment of a national Red List of ecosystems to further refine the classification criteria and the assessment methodology. IUCN‐Med will also undertake necessary consultations with IUCN State Members to apply the criteria and the methodology on key ecosystems in North Africa. Work on Red List of species and Red List of ecosystems will be conducted in close collaboration with IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC) and with the Commission on Ecosystem Management (CEM).

• Support the dissemination of relevant information on biodiversity status and trends through appropriate tools and media. Knowledge sharing and communication needs to be strengthened to improve understanding of key biodiversity issues and inform policies, decision-making and action on nature conservation in North African countries. This will involve preparing technical reports and guidance documents as well as using other communication tools that are the most appropriate to target key sectors, including social media to reach in particular young people. In order to effectively inform society and the general public, a network of journalists interested in improving the quality and quantity of environmental news and information for the region will be promoted, and capacity building

Red Lists are a basic tool to encourage and assist conservation prioritisation and action.


for improving coverage of environmental information by the media should be provided.

Result 1.2: Representativeness and management of conservation areas in North Afri-can countries is improved

Justification

According to related international agreements, a number of governments have committed themselves to creating a representative networks of terrestrial and marine conservation areas. In line with the targets set in the CBD Strategic Plan (mainly Target 11), there is a need to improve the designation of protected areas and other areas of particular importance for biodiversity and ecosystem services, as well as ensure their effective management and connectivity.

The need for training, capacity building and information exchange for biodiver-sity conservation and ecosystems management was highlighted as a key issue during the Regional Conservation Forum held in Egypt in October 2015. Co-operation and training have been useful to strengthen the capacity of environ-mental managers and stakeholders, as well as to influence and drive effective and sound policy making and implementation. The North African programme shall continue the work previously undertaken and strengthen efforts in training and capacity building in several areas, including species conservation and protected areas management.

Approach (means)

• Support and assist North African countries to develop a representative and coherent network of conservation areas, including marine and coastal areas of conservation interest, as well as improve their management and ecological connectivity. The assessment of representativeness of the national networks of protected areas and other conservation areas will provide the basis to identify main gaps and new sites to be designated. Taking into account in particular the insufficient designation in the marine environment, the programme shall assist North African countries to identify and develop a representative and coherent network of marine and coastal areas to be managed for the conservation of biodiversity, as Marine Protected Areas and other appropriate categories. Furthermore, the conservation of deep sea ecosystems of high biodiversity value will be addressed with particular emphasis in the Mediterranean Programme and the participation of North African partners in international partnerships to conserve these ecosystems shall be supported. Many of these biodiversity hotspots are on continental shelves, slopes, canyons, and seamounts although their full geographic extent is still unknown. The protection of deep sea-ecosystems through designation of fisheries reduction areas and other conservation management approaches will be supported.


• Promote effective management of protected areas through capacity building and sharing experience on conservation planning and management. The management effectiveness in protected areas can be evaluated using agreed criteria and indicators (e.g. IUCN Green List of Protected Areas, and other criteria elaborated ad-hoc). To be effective, protected areas should be planned and managed in a way that allows achieving their objectives. In North Africa, there is an evident need for strengthening national capacities in protected area planning and management, through training and sharing experience and good practices among site managers. Trainings should highlight the role that Protected Areas could play in supporting socio‐economic development and should demonstrate that conservation of sites is a driver for economic development. As part of this Programme, training courses targeting high level officers in the governmental institutions in charge of nature conservation and land use planning will be organised. Moreover, the programme will strive to strengthen North‐South and South‐South technical cooperation between sites and site managers to share experience and good practices in the management of protected areas and other conservation areas, in particular the Biosphere reserves in North Africa and other Mediterranean countries (see also result 3.1).

Result 1.3:

Conservation of key species and ecosystems is strengthened through strategic planning and implementation of priority measures

Justification

Conservation status of species and ecosystems continue to decline and action is needed to prevent the extinction and improve the protection of threatened species and their habitats. Significant pressure exist on key ecosystems in North African countries, including marine and coastal ecosystems, inland wa-ters and drylands. The need for training, capacity building and information exchange on species conservation planning has been highlighted by the IUCN North Africa Members and initiatives started in the previous programme have yielded successful results. These experiences shall be continued and expand-ed in the current programme.

Moreover, the development and use of appropriate tools to address the main pressures on key ecosystems and to ensure conservation planning and sus-tainable management should be promoted. In particular, coastal and marine ecosystems throughout the Mediterranean continue to face severe pressures and there is a clear need to link the management planning of these areas with approaches aimed at promoting sustainable management and use of natural ecosystems.


Approach (means)

• Strengthen capacity for the development and implementation of con-servation strategies and action plans for key species in North Africa. The Programme will support the NA countries in the implementation of conservation strategies for key species, through specific training (e.g. on conservation plans, monitoring, habitat improvement), facilitating information exchange and providing technical assistance. In the previous programme, support was provided to strengthen capacity for the development of national and regional action plans for threatened species in Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia. Under this Programme, the elaboration of species conservation strategies shall be expanded to focus on other key species and other North African countries such as Libya and Egypt. The programme shall also en-courage and influence policy makers and managers to continue working on action planning as well as providing assistance and facilitation in the form of coordination and reviewing. Strategies for species conservation shall also identify and address new and emerging issues that require urgent action in some North African countries, such as the impact of new electricity lines on birds or other new infrastructure with negative impacts on nature. Improving capacities for species conservation in North Africa also requires establishing appropriate monitoring systems. The programme will support activities that can contribute to developing monitoring programmes for key species, such as setting expert an group for raptors’ monitor-ing, a network for monitoring of invasive species, flora conservation, etc. Capacity building shall be also provided to combat some particular important threats such as illegal hunting or unsustainable capture, trade or killing of species. Specific workshops will be organised to analyse the situation and design appropriate measure to tackle these threats in North African countries. A particularly important component of these actions will be the integration of knowledge and experience sharing between Northern and Southern Mediterranean countries and facilitating access to the information.

• Support the development and application of planning tools and meth-odologies for addressing key pressures and to promote conserva-tion and sustainable management of ecosystems. The programme will support the sustainable management and conservation of biodiversity in marine and coastal areas through spatial planning and strategic environ-mental assessments. The programme will support activities aimed at im-proving understanding of the main pressures on the coastal and marine

The need for training, capacity building and information exchange on species conservation planning has been highlighted by the IUCN North Africa Members.


environment and the development of tools and guidelines for marine spatial planning and integrated coastal zone management through the compilation and centralization of available data and geo-referenced infor-mation in Geoportals and Spatial Data Infrastructure (such as the Alboran geoportal, or the Medina and PEGASO SDIs). These tools will contribute to improve understanding of pressures from coastal and marine activities on biodiversity (species, habitats) and conservation areas for assisting bet-ter policy and strategies along the Mediterranean coast. The programme will promote the cooperation among scientific and other relevant institu-tions to produce the information needed to conserve and manage marine and coastal ecosystems in priority regions. Relevant information will be presented and discussed with regional and local administrations to as-sist the design of appropriate strategies for coastal activities and iden-tify an integrative approach that takes into account the interactions and cumulative effects across all pressures and ecosystem components. Similar efforts shall be implemented to address the main pressures on oth-er key ecosystems, such as inland waters. Under this programme best practice and recommendations for management of freshwater KBAs will be further developed. This will be made possible by assessing linkag-es and connectivity between water catchment conditions and economic/livelihood statutes, expressing this information in a form and with a focus that can inform and influence real‐world conservation and the development of river basin planning. Appropriate management of other terrestrial KBAs (e.g. selected IPAs) will also be promoted under the programme.

The programme will support the sustainable management and conservation of biodiversity in marine and coastal areas through spatial planning and strategic environ mental assessments.


PROGRAMME AREA 2:Promoting and Supporting Effective and Equitable Governance of Natural Resources

Result 2.1: Governance and institutional systems for effective management of impor-tant biodiversity areas are strengthened

Justification

Governance can be defined as the set of rules, institutions and processes through which decisions on the use of natural resources are made and im-plemented. Nature conservation governance is complex and is influenced by various interests and priorities at national, regional and international scales. The current governance systems for nature conservation suffer from significant gaps and shortcomings in North Africa. Legal and institutional frameworks de-termining rights and responsibilities related to nature conservation and natural resources management need to be developed and effectively implemented in order to improve governance of natural resources in areas of high interest for biodiversity conservation.

Under a very dynamic and changing social and political scenario in North Afri-ca, unclear, weak and rigid governance structures are the key factors influenc-ing environmental degradation of both terrestrial and marine Mediterranean ecosystems. Priority focus and special attention will be given to improve gov-ernance of natural resources in areas of high interest for biodiversity con-servation. The Ecosystem Approach is a useful tool for conservation, conflict resolution, and for establishing innovative governance agreements. The Eco-system Approach recognises the importance of social, cultural, economic and institutional factors in promoting conservation and in supporting a diversity of governance types. Furthermore, it calls to decentralise management to the lowest appropriate level and increasing stakeholder involvement in conserva-tion. There is, however, limited guidance available that considers the man-agement of important biodiversity areas (KBAs, SPAMIs, EBSAs, Biosphere Reserves, FRAs, etc.) from a government perspective and how to combine local, political and market interests across different sectors to achieve effective conservation at those sites. A particular focus is related to capacity building needs, exchange of experiences and lessons learnt from initiatives built to im-prove governance and effective management. Important biodiversity areas are dependent on the environment around the areas, as well as any planning and management decisions made for them. Development of management capaci-ties and skills is needed to improve site management, regulation enforcement, monitoring plans and better coordination and cooperation with stakeholders and planners.

For better governance, a more intensive participation of the elected local au-thorities, the private sector and NGOs in the management of biodiversity and protected areas should be promoted.


Approach (means)

• Promoting effective management and governance models in impor-tant biodiversity areas. This requires a comprehensive assessment of the legal and institutional frameworks for biodiversity conservation and protected areas, encouraging studies and scientific research in North African countries to identify gaps and difficulties for designation and man-agement, and designing appropriate measures to address the most rele-vant hindrances. Over the last years, an assessment of the institutional and legal system for Marine protected areas and ICZM has been carried out in various Mediterranean countries. Further efforts are still needed in order to strengthen the institutional capacity for marine nature conservation as well as enhance coordination for planning and implementing other coastal and marine related activities. The current legal framework for the protection of sea and fisheries management in North African countries will be further analysed with a view to propose improvements and policy changes for the designation and implementation of new key sites and more effective man-agement tools for marine conservation areas.

• Capacity building and technical assistance shall also be provided to sup-port the conservation areas in achieving effective governance and manage-ment. Cooperation and experience sharing among site managers will promoted to achieve this objective. For example, the programme will sup-port the establishment of the biosphere reserve managers’ network in the Mediterranean (Med‐MaB), as a result of the implementation of the BR gov-ernance and management action plan in North Africa (see also result 2.2.).

• Sound management of protected areas needs sustainable platforms where all the relevant stakeholders and actors can provide advice and contribute to their implementation on the ground. Protected areas in North Africa are in need of such structures, where contribution from scientists can also be valued and integrated into the management plans of the are-as. The establishment and the running of these platforms in key protected areas in North Africa will be supported under this programme by provid-ing technical advice and facilitating exchange of similar experiences with northern Mediterranean countries.

• Shared management (or co-management) of conservation areas in-volving all relevant stakeholders will be encouraged and promoted under this programme. IUCN Med will work to strengthen the capacities of lo-cal communities and stakeholders to manage and conserve protected areas and natural resources, especially in vulnerable ecosystems (e.g. coastal ecosystems, seagrasses, springs and wetlands, mountain areas with relict ecosystems and species). Previous experience involving key sectors in conservation management, such as local fishing communities in Morocco, will be further developed and implemented in other areas. The programme will support the development of co-management schemes in pilot protected areas in collaboration with national stakeholders and poten-tial users from the local communities, CSOs and private sectors.


• The programme will also explore and promote the management of con-servation areas through land stewardship of the areas involving NGOs, CSO or other key stakeholders (e.g. in Tunisia).

• Furthermore, some Important Plant Areas could be selected to act as pi-lot examples for the empowerment of local communities to achieve active management and conservation of their plant diversity.

• In many rural areas of North Africa, women have the potential to play a cen-tral role in enhancing the sustainability of agriculture and of other forms of natural resource exploitation. While mainstreaming gender considerations should continue to be a cross‐cutting element of the IUCN Programme in North Africa, the involvement of women in implementing community‐based activities should be particularly encouraged and supported. Young people should also be involved in these activities.

• Supporting the involvement of the civil society organisations in the con-servation and management of conservation areas has been addressed in previous projects aimed at improving the management and governance of protected areas and key biodiversity areas in North African countries. The actions will be continued and expanded under this programme to consolidate and further develop and apply this approach. In this regard, the PPI-OSCAN programme will continue supporting small-scale initia-tives implemented by Civil Society Organisations in North Africa and thus strengthening the role and the technical, administrative and financial ca-pacity of CSOs in North African countries in nature conservation and nat-ural resources management through their implementation of specific field initiatives.

• The private sector is also keen to contribute to the conservation of biodi-versity and is increasingly involved in environmental initiatives. The par-ticipation of the private sector in nature conservation will be encouraged under this programme, supporting the role played by the business sector in developing, testing and promoting nature-based solutions (e.g. elec-tricity companies developing actions for birds’ protection, tourism opera-tors engaged with eco-tourism best practices, etc.).

Result 2.2: Participation and engagement of North African partners in regional and international initiatives and institutional processes for biodiversity con-servation and sustainable management of natural resources are strength-ened

Justification

At international level, relevant agreements and specific governance bodies and institutional tools have been created to assist in the conservation of bi-odiversity and sustainable development in the Mediterranean and there is a


need to facilitate their implementation in North African countries. Among them the Barcelona Convention and its protocols, in particular the SPA‐Biodiversity protocol, the ICZM protocol and the Ecosystem Approach; the CBD Strategic Plan for Biodiversity and the Nagoya Protocol on ABS; the ACCOBAMS on the conservation of cetaceans in the Black Sea, Mediterranean Sea and contig-uous Atlantic area; the Ramsar Convention on the conservation of wetlands of international importance, and the Bonn Convention on the conservation of migratory species.

Other international bodies are developing specific tools to assist in the sus-tainable development of the Mediterranean, such as: GFCM‐FAO developing regional activities for regulating and promoting the sustainable development of fisheries and aquaculture, the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientif-ic Organization (ALECSO) on harmonization of Arab educational and cultural interests, the UNESCO World Heritage Centre on management and improve-ment of world heritage sites, and the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) for the protection of the marine environment.

North African countries may require support to strengthen their capacities for the implementation of regional and international policies and their adaptation to the national level. Their participation in international meetings and processes should be reinforced as well as the implementation of their commitments under international agreements. Cooperation and networking with regional initiatives is essential to boost synergies that contribute to improve good governance for biodiversity conservation and sustainable management of natural resources.

Approach (means)

Implementation of international conventions and biodiversity related agreements as well as other regional strategies and initiatives in North African countries will be supported under the programme.

• Implementation of international agreements will be enhanced by providing support to the participation of North African countries (administration and experts) in international and regional debates on the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources. This may involve providing tech-nical assistance for the preparation and dissemination of position papers and/or technical documents that support the decision making process at the regional and national levels. Support can also be provided for the assessment, recommendation for revision and implementation of na-tional legislation related to protected areas, priority species, and nature conservation in general. Particular attention will be paid to the participation to regional and international events related to governance, planning and management of conservation areas and marine resources and to the im-plementation of the decisions made at the international and regional level in the North African countries.

• Support will also be provided under the programme to the participation and cooperation of North African countries in regional thematic initiatives


and programmes, and to the implementation of related activities in the countries, such as the ICZM protocol of the Barcelona convention, the Col-laborative Partnership on Mediterranean Forests, the Mediterranean Wet-lands Initiative (MedWet), etc.

• Cooperation with the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediter-ranean (GFCM-FAO) will be supported under the programme with a view to improving marine conservation. In particular, the following fields of ac-tivity have been identified in the Memorandum of Understanding signed between IUCN-Med and the GFCM-FAO: formulation of sustainable devel-opment frameworks and guidelines for artisanal fisheries, marine protected areas for fisheries and aquaculture activities, improvement of governance of the Mediterranean Sea, using the different types of management op-tions developed by different international instruments (such as Fisheries Restricted Areas, Fisheries reserves, Marine Protected Areas for fisheries, etc.), assessing the status of marine ecosystems, developing and reinforc-ing partnerships for better linking marine conservation and fisheries issues.

• The cooperation with the Union for the Arab Maghreb (UMA) will be strengthened under the current programme to address the priority inter-vention areas identified, namely the protection and sustainable manage-ment of oases, the preservation of marine biodiversity and the protection of biodiversity in mountain areas.

• Cooperation with the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) will be mainly focused on the protection of the marine environment and on improving the gender approach and fostering women’s participation in relevant environ-mental matters including green economy (the UfM is developing a specific programme on women and development).

• The identification of potential new regional thematic networks to be created in North Africa will be explored under the programme in order to address relevant issues that contribute to improve governance, such as enhancing gender approach and civil society participation.

• The programme should also assist the North African countries in the rati-fication of the Nagoya Protocol, the implementation of legislation and the creation of value chains related to biological resources by applying the principle of fair and equitable sharing.


PROGRAMME AREA 3: Deploying Nature-based solutions to address societal challenges

Result 3.1: Capacity in addressing climate change and other global threats on impor-tant biodiversity areas and priority ecosystems is improved

Justification

The conservation of natural ecosystems is currently facing important challeng-es arising from the effects of climate change combined with other human in-duced pressures (global change). The definition of appropriate management regimes that maintain the multiple functions of these ecosystems‐ in a time of strongly changing climatic, economic and societal drivers‐ constitutes a sig-nificant challenge. Management decisions must be based on a sound under-standing of the future dynamics of these systems. Rigorous information on the impacts and consequences of the process of global change is needed to ad-dress conservation management in sensitive areas.

In the Mediterranean, demographical trends and climate change scenarios can be identified as two overarching drivers which will continue to strongly in-fluence the status of biodiversity in the region. The last report from the Interna-tional Panel on Climate Change (IPCC, 2013) highlights the Mediterranean as one of the most vulnerable regions in the world to the impacts of global warm-ing. In the marine environment, fishing impacts, pollution, climate change, eu-trophication, and the establishment of alien species are the most significant threats.

Very few studies on the consequences that climate change could produce on species distribution, habitat features and ecosystem structure in the Mediterra-nean have previously been conducted. Nevertheless, the available information indicates that a serious alteration of biological and ecological patterns in both marine and terrestrial biomes is already taking place and generating negative impacts. Better understanding of climate change impacts will require assess-ing vulnerability to climate change and future implications for conservation ef-forts. There is also a strong need to promote the sharing of experience and “know how” on the monitoring of global change effects in sensitive protected areas among Mediterranean countries.

IUCN is extensively involved in supporting climate change adaptation, with a specific focus on Ecosystem based Adaptation (EbA). This is directly aligned with IUCN’s commitment to Nature based Solutions as a part of its overall vision and mission. Essentially, Ecosystem‐Based Adaptation addresses the crucial links between climate change, biodiversity, ecosystem services and sustaina-ble resource management. In this respect, the concept of using ecosystems as a basis to adapt to the impacts of changes in climate has gained momentum in recent years and has now emerged as an important technology in the adap-tation ‘toolbox’.


Approach (means)

• IUCN-MED in cooperation with its partners will support the elaboration and dissemination of information about the consequences of climate change in the Mediterranean region, including on biodiversity and key ecosystems but also on relevant sectors (tourism, fisheries, etc.). Com-mon indicators should be developed. A document for policy makers will be prepared and widely distributed including to North African governmental organisations, administrations, NGOs, the private sector and other relevant stakeholders.

• Improving understanding of climate change effects on biodiversity and natural ecosystems will require to strengthen capacities to carry out vulnerability assessments to climate change effects and for designing measures to improve resilience and ensuring climate justice. Under this Programme, special attention will be given to build capacity for resilience planning and adaptation to global change in protected areas and impor-tant areas for biodiversity conservation, with particular focus on Ecosys-tem based Adaptation. Training sessions on monitoring approaches and adaptation measures as well as to improve the capacity to carry out vul-nerability assessments in order to evaluate and characterize the impacts of climate change on marine and coastal areas will be conducted under the Mediterranean programme, and the participation of North African experts and managers will be supported under this programme.

• Cooperation shall also be reinforced with relevant partners (e.g. MedPAN Secretariat, RAC/SPA and other regional and local partners) to build ca-pacity in addressing climate change threats to coastal MPA ecosys-tems. This involves assessing the likely impacts of climate change on different MPAs and species and the potential actions needed to ensure the adaptability and the resilience of biodiversity. Furthermore, the programme will aim to foster networks by improving the dialogue and coordination be-tween MPA managers with climate change and marine scientists.

• The programme will also explore ways of cooperation among countries and national institutions to address climate change knowledge, monitor-ing, mitigation and adaptation and to promote the sharing of experience and “know how” on the monitoring of climate change effects in protected areas.

• As regards the spread of invasive species, the programme will support the preparation of projects on non-native species early detection and mon-itoring, impact assessment and management strategies in relevant coun-tries. Furthermore, support will be provided to help managers of marine protected areas to carry out the monitoring of the spread of invasive species in the Mediterranean Sea (through the MedMIS initiative).


Result 3.2:Best practices on sustainable management and restoration of ecosys-tems that deliver essential services are promoted and disseminated

Justification

Natural ecosystems are providing benefits to people in many ways, from regu-lating local climates to providing clean drinking water. The benefits supplied by natural ecosystems are collectively referred to as ecosystem services. While these services provide the basis for the livelihoods of many societies and play an important role in ensuring food, water and energy security, they are also fundamental tools in climate change adaptation.

The Millennium Ecosystem Assessment and The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) study clearly demonstrate the significant values that biodiversity and ecosystem services make to national and global economies. For example, functional and resilient ecosystems are proven to reduce the im-pacts of extreme climatic events on the most vulnerable communities. Howev-er, ecosystem services remain yet undervalued and under-appreciated.

Healthy, diverse and well managed ecosystems lay the foundation for prac-tical, nature‐based solutions to global problems. Nature based solutions can contribute to halting the loss and degradation of natural ecosystems and sup-port their restoration, as well as to the mitigation of and adaptation to climate change.

Certain forms of natural resource uses have led to overexploitation. Sustaina-bility can be ensured through improved management approaches and through

Gazella cuvieri© Tim Wacher


the use of appropriate exploitation techniques, and making, where possible, a better use of traditional practices that proved to be sustainable and adapted to the natural context of North Africa.

Approach (means)

• The programme will support the assessment and communication of key ecosystems services and benefits and their contribution to the material needs of local populations, especially rural and coastal communities.

• Across the Mediterranean region, IUCN-Med and its partners will collect and disseminate best practices of different traditional (or inspired in) man-agement practices of high value for human development and biodiversi-ty conservation. This will include best practices of nature conservation and nature based solutions, including experiences of the private sec-tor. Under this objective an inventory of traditional agriculture, fishing and water catchment systems and practices could be undertaken and made available. Dissemination of relevant information highlighting the linkages between biodiversity and traditional management can be used as tool for communication and policy support for “threatened” land uses and cultural practices that help to cope with current challenges.

• Furthermore, the use of traditional systems and practices of particular interest for the preservation of biodiversity and ecosystem services will be promoted through demonstration actions in pilot areas. Demonstrative projects can be developed to address important biodiversity threats, for example the loss of native domestic varieties, traditional practices for man-aging water, and sustainable pastoralism (especially in protected areas). Regarding the actions intended to cope with climate change, for instance, the use of local and traditional knowledge and the outcomes of scientific research in the restoration of functioning ecosystems and preservation of ecosystem services will be also promoted through the implementation of pilot actions and valuation of related traditional practices.

• Pilot actions for the restoration of degraded ecosystems of particular value in North African countries will also be encouraged under the cur-rent programme. Initial focus will be given to coastal ecosystems, due to the rapid degradation processes that are currently occurring, mainly from the transformation of semi natural areas into recreational landscapes. Previous experiences with restoration and management of coastal dunes have shown the importance of implication of the local population and stakeholders as part of the planning and restoration processes. Support will be given to local communities in undertaking management and restoration of natural resourc-es based on cultural values, local perceptions, and traditional management practices. These actions will also require capacity building for local commu-nities and local stakeholders on vulnerable ecosystems management and restoration. Training and exchange of experience on habitat restoration, in-cluding for example coastal habitats, wetlands, pastureland, oasis and forest landscape restoration, could be supported under this programme.


• The programme will also promote engagement with key land-use and natural resource sectors, to identify and collaborate in sustainable management and nature-based solutions. Special attention will be given to the fisheries and tourism sectors and their interaction in important biodiversity areas. IUCN-Med and its partners have encouraged and developed best practices for management of fisheries and eco-tourism in protected areas in North Africa. The efforts will be continued and further developed under this programme. As regards fisheries, several initiatives will be promoted in order to adapt fishing practices and intensity to the conservation needs of important biodiversity areas, some of which are already described under other programme areas and results. As regards eco-tourism, work started in the previous programme (e.g. in Tunisia and Morocco) will continue and best practices will be further promoted in protected areas in North-African countries. A network of Mediterranean protected areas promoting eco-tourism set up in a previous project (MEET) will be further expanded and strengthened. This will require working with tourist operators and local providers of tourism services to improve sustainability, promoting consumption of local products in tourist destinations, and the creation of sustainable tourism products.

The programme will aim to foster networks by improving the dialogue and coordination between MPA managers with climate change and marine scientists.


5. MODALITIES FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROGRAMME

WORKING TOGETHER

The primary mission of IUCN is to influence, encourage and assist societies throughout the world to conserve the integrity and diversity of nature and to ensure that any use of natural resources is equitable and ecologically sustain-able.

The “One Programme approach” states that the different parts of IUCN in-volved in the implementation of the North Africa programme – IUCN Members (government and NGO), National Committees, Commissions of experts, and the IUCN-Med Centre – work together to develop, implement and advance the programme.

This One Programme approach brings together the collective strengths of the Union to address pressing environmental issues in the region.

The One Programme Principles guide the way all parts are committed to work together in the implementation of the programme:

• To deliver the programme at the most appropriate level, using the best-placed part of the Union to deliver national, regional or global results;

• To cooperate and don’t compete for roles and resources; • To allocate resources to the part of the Union responsible for delivery; • To communicate openly and transparently to keep each other informed of

plans and activities.

Under this approach, IUCN‐Med will continue to work closely with the main governance bodies in the Mediterranean and North Africa, as well as with the main stakeholders acting in the region in order to influence the regional nature conservation agenda and to support institutional processes leading to effective conservation and management of biodiversity, natural patrimony and resourc-es in the region.

IUICN Members and key partners are committed to the implementation of the programme and contribute with their own efforts and resources to the achievement of the expected results. Some of the activities and tasks under-taken by the national Members are clearly integrated into the programme’s objectives and can be accounted as part of its implementation. The national committees and the national Members play an important in translating the pro-gramme into relevant national action plans.


Particular attention will also be given to increase IUCN membership and part-nership and to set up national committees were they do not exist yet, as well as to strengthen the involvement of the most relevant local partners in the im-plementation of the programme. A campaign to strengthen IUCN membership will be launched in the countries concerned by this programme.

Partnerships for the implementation of the programme will be strengthened and diversified. The participation and cooperation in the programme of repre-sentatives of national institutions from different economic sectors, the private sector, NGOs and relevant local stakeholders (including local authorities and communities) will be enhanced. This will also imply improving the consultation and involvement of partners in the preparation of the projects, strengthening their capacities for project preparation and management and ensuring smooth relations and networking among the partners.

Women participation and ensuring gender approach in the conservation of biodiversity and sustainable use of natural resources will be reinforced. Wom-en can provide significant support and know-how for implementing actions at all levels, from national to local level. It will also be important to strengthen the involvement of young generation in the implementation of the actions under the programme.

The program is ambitious and it would be useful to prepare with each Mem-ber State a roadmap for its implementation, by defining in more detail the ap-proaches to be followed, the methods of intervention and the means to use to reach the program objectives.

Specific support to develop national action programmes would be helpful. They should be organized in the countries with the participation of the Secre-tariat, the members and experts of the commissions.

EFFICIENT IMPLEMENTATION AND MOBILISATION OF RESOURCES

A main focus is on increasing the cooperation among Members, National Committees, Commission experts, key partners and the IUCN-Med Centre in order to strengthen the programme implementation and increase its impact.

Improving coordination and cooperation among the members and partners in the implementation of the programme and its activities would require more regular meetings to ensure that all views and relevant needs are taken into account, to share experiences and know-how, success stories, etc. Best avail-able technologies can be used for this purpose.

Relevant sub-programmes or projects will be coordinated and followed up by steering groups formed with national experts from the countries involved in their implementation, which will boost a more dynamic implementation of the actions.

Support and capacity building for the partners involved in the implementation


of projects and initiatives is crucial. This requires training and support to create networks involving public and private organisations, and promote cooperation among the different actors and parties involved.

Providing the expertise needed for projects’ implementation is also essential and can be achieved by making efficient use of all knowledge and experience available in the countries and from abroad. National experts and organisations can provide relevant knowledge and experience, while international experts and other expert networks from international organisations can be integrated into projects’ implementation. The IUCN Commissions (species, ecosystems, etc.) provide strong technical support on concepts, approaches and method-ologies for the implementation of the programme activities.

Efforts will also be made to continue building the network of experts and exper-tise in North Africa through supporting membership to IUCN Commissions. Under each Commission, a thematic network of experts from North Africa and the Mediterranean countries could be established.

Coordination and cooperation with other regional offices in particular ROWA, SEE office, PACO, as well as with other IUCN Members and Commis-sions will also be reinforced to achieve common objectives.

It seems also advisable to take the necessary steps to transform the agree-ments signed with regional institutions (UfM, UMA, CEDARE, FAO and ALEC-SO) into action plans that identify the opportunities and help to jointly implement the relevant actions under this programme.

Moreover, the mobilisation of resources for the implementation of the pro-gramme should be strengthened. This involves accessing new funding sourc-es and donors as well as promoting synergies and cooperation with other programmes and initiatives that share similar objectives to those pursued un-der this programme.


PROGRAMME MONITORING AND REPORTING

The monitoring and reporting of the North Africa Programme 2017-2020 will be done through a number of results and impact indicators properly defined, which will allow assessing progress during the implementation of the pro-gramme and evaluate the results achieved. These indicators are as far as pos-sible aligned with the indicators used to measure progress against the SDGs12 and the Aichi Biodiversity Targets.

The monitoring and evaluation of the programme include a Mid-term evalua-tion to be conducted by the end of the second year of the programme imple-mentation (2018) and a final evaluation. These evaluations will be carried out by independent experts and in consultation with all IUCN Members and key partners in the region, and their results will be widely disseminated and com-municated to all relevant stakeholders.

The Mid-term evaluation is essential to assess main strengths and weakness during the programme implementation and enable identifying gaps, shortcom-ings and successful experiences, allowing better decision-making for the pro-gramme continuation.

The monitoring and evaluation of the programme provide relevant information for the communication of key results to all partners, other interested parties and the general public, which improves the visibility of the programme and its results.

The objectives of the programme and its results shall be properly communicat-ed to raise awareness about biodiversity at the political and decision-making level, in all policy areas and development sectors, and among the population. This requires effective and appropriate tools and language. Reporting and communication under the programme will highlight the linkages of biodiversi-ty and development, including socio-economic issues that concern the life of people, as job creation, economy, food, climate change, etc.

(12) At the time of writing this programme, the SDG indicators have not yet been finalised and it is therefore not yet possible to state these in their final form. However, by the time of the IUCN World Conservation Congress, IUCN will be able to use the SDG indicators to track IUCN contributions to the SDG targets.


6. HUMAN RESOURCES NEEDED TO IMPLEMENT THE PROGRAMME

The proper and efficient implementation of this Programme requires the involve-ment of IUCN’s Members in North Africa and the coordination of the IUCN-Med Centre. The day-to-day management and implementation of the Programme activities will be done by a team made of the Programme Coordinator and 4 Programme officers in the IUCN-Med Centre.

The Programme Coordinator will be responsible for the overall implementation of the Programme including: (i) contacts with Members, (ii) contacts with rel-evant national authorities, (iii) Secretariat of the Steering Committee, (iv) coor-dinating and supporting the Programme officers, (v) elaborating technical and financial reports.

The Programme officers will be responsible for the activities under the following thematic areas:

• Terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems• Terrestrial and freshwater species• Marine ecosystems and species• Information and communication

The IUCN Members and partners involved in the North Africa programme con-tribute with their human resources and facilities to the implementation of the actions under their competences and responsibilities.

The IUCN experts in Commissions provide a valuable scientific and technical support on relevant issues for the implementation of the programme. IUCN may also seek the collaboration of international experts that provide technical assistance to the implementation of some particular actions as required.


ACRONYMS

ACCOBAMS: Agreement on the Conservation of Cetaceans in the Black Sea Mediterranean Sea and Contiguous Atlantic Area

CBD: Convention on Biological Diversity

CSO: Civil Society Organisation

GFCM: General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean

GIS: Geographical Information System

GIZ: Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (German International Cooperation)

HCEFLCD: Haut Commissariat aux Eaux et Forêts et à la Lutte Contre la Dé-sertification

IAS: Invasive Alien Species

IPA: Important Plant Area

IUCN: International Union for the conservation of nature

KBA: Key Biodiversity Area

MaB: Man and Biosphere – UNESCO Programme

PA: Protected Area

RAC/SPA: Regional Activity Centre for Specially Protected Areas, established by the Contracting Parties to the Barcelona Convention

SDI: Spatial Data Infrastructure

UNCCD: United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification

UNESCO: United National Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation

UNFCC: United Nations Framework Convention on Climate

WWF: World Wide Fund for Nature


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