Panama to host COP16 of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 2028

Panama has been selected to host the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16) to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, scheduled for June 7-15, 2028. The international environmental conference is anticipated to convene approximately 1,500 delegates from more than 170 nations.

The formal designation occurred following an agreement signed by Panama's Environment Minister, Juan Carlos Navarro, and the Secretary-General of the Ramsar Convention, Musonda Mumba. This agreement signifies a close collaboration to prepare for one of the world's most significant environmental gatherings. The conference will bring together scientists, wetland specialists, indigenous peoples, environmental organizations, and private sector representatives.

Panama has been a State Party to the Ramsar Convention since 1989 and boasts six internationally recognized wetlands: Panama Bay, the Gulf of Montijo, San San Pond Sak, Punta Patiño, Damani-Guariviara, and the Matusagaratí Wetland Complex. These sites are crucial for connecting biodiversity between North, Central, and South America, serving as vital corridors for migratory species and essential breeding grounds for fish and birds. They also play a key role in regulating coastal hydrological processes, offering significant social and economic value.

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This agreement marks a close collaboration to prepare one of the most important environmental meetings in the world, which will bring together about 1,500 representatives from more than 170 countries along with scientists, wetland specialists, indigenous peoples, environmental organizations, and the private sector.

Minister Navarro stated that Panama's selection as host acknowledges the country's dedication to wetland protection and presents an opportunity to showcase national nature-based solutions. He highlighted the importance of Panama's mangroves and wetlands, which occupy a substantial portion of the coastline and provide irreplaceable economic value to coastal communities. The government views hosting COP16 as a chance to strengthen regional partnerships, attract conservation investments, and increase the participation of tropical countries in international decisions regarding wetland management.

The primary objectives of the COP16 conference include adopting agreements to enhance the protection and sustainable use of wetlands. These ecosystems are vital for biodiversity, water security, and human well-being. The Ramsar Convention itself was adopted in Ramsar, Iran, in 1971.

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Our mangroves and wetlands are unique and majestic ecosystems that occupy an important proportion of the Panamanian coast and provide irreplaceable economic value to our coastal communities, and we are taking care of them hand in hand with those same communities.