The 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) concluded successfully in Cali, Colombia, marking a significant step forward for global biodiversity conservation. Representing the Maldives, Minister of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy Thoriq Ibrahim participated in discussions aimed at accelerating biodiversity protection efforts, which included high-level commitments to Indigenous inclusion, African-descent participation, and innovative conservation financing.
Minister Thoriq announced that the Maldives has been elected as a bureau member representing the Asia-Pacific region for the 17th Conference of the Parties and will serve as co-chair for the next meeting. This selection positions the Maldives to play a more active role in shaping global biodiversity policy and enhancing conservation initiatives, with a particular focus on the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework established in 2022.
New Directions in Biodiversity Conservation
The COP16 conference addressed critical issues, including the dramatic decline in global biodiversity, highlighted by reports indicating a 73% reduction in wild vertebrate populations over the last 50 years. Recognising the importance of immediate action, delegates reaffirmed commitments to reverse this decline, focusing on the implementation of targets under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
One notable decision reached during COP16 was the establishment of a permanent subsidiary body to ensure Indigenous peoples have a formal role in biodiversity conservation discussions, recognising the importance of their traditional knowledge. Additionally, new measures were adopted to enhance the involvement of people of African descent in nature conservation efforts, further broadening the scope of community-based conservation.
Financial Support for Conservation Goals
During the conference, pledges amounting to approximately $400 million were made to support biodiversity conservation worldwide, though this figure highlights a need for increased funding to meet ambitious global biodiversity targets. The newly established fund under the Kunming-Montreal Framework will specifically aid countries like the Maldives in safeguarding endangered species and their habitats, providing critical resources for local conservation projects.
Maldives’ Role and Future Plans
In his statements, Minister Thoriq underscored the environmental challenges facing the Maldives, a nation particularly vulnerable to biodiversity loss due to its island ecosystems. He discussed the potential use of Planet’s satellite data for monitoring and addressing these challenges. The Maldives has expressed optimism in building on recent technological advances to support its conservation goals.
As the Maldives prepares to co-chair COP17, its representatives will work closely with international partners to advance discussions on biodiversity protection, funding mechanisms, and sustainable development. The country’s role as a bureau member reflects its commitment to fostering collaborative solutions and actively contributing to global efforts for biodiversity conservation.
