Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS)
The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) is a legally binding international treaty under the United Nations. CMS is one of the most important global frameworks for wildlife conservation and plays a vital role in addressing the global biodiversity crisis. By fostering international collaboration, supporting research, and developing conservation agreements and actions among the Range States in which these species are found, CMS ensures the long-term survival of migratory species of wild animals and their habitats, and the vital benefits they provide.
CMS recognition of rangelands and pastoralism
CMS instruments, including action plans and work programmes aimed at conserving terrestrial mammals and birds, address threats such as overgrazing and identify opportunities for management interventions to ensure sustainable use of rangelands and peaceful co-existence of wildlife and livestock.
At CMS COP14 (February 2024), the Decisions on Pastoralism and Migratory Species wereadopted. These Decisions recognize the importance of conserving and sustainably managing rangelands in migratory species’ habitats and mandate the CMS Secretariat to participate in the 2026 International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists Working Group on Rangelands and Biodiversity. Furthermore, it mandated the CMS Scientific Council to establish a Multi-Stakeholder Working Group on Pastoralism and CMS-listed Species.
Based on preliminary recommendations from the multi-stakeholder working group, a new set of decisions will be considered by the CMS Conference of the Parties at its 15th meeting.Proposed activities aim to: