Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species

The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS) is an international treaty that provides a global platform for the conservation of migratory animals and their habitats. It operates under the United Nations Environment Programme. The CMS is newsworthy due to the ongoing COP15 (Conference of the Parties) being held in Campo Grande, Brazil. This conference, attended by representatives from 132 countries and the European Union, focuses on addressing the alarming decline in migratory species, with one in two currently experiencing population decreases. A key recent development is the addition of 40 new migratory species, including the giant otter of Brazil and the striped hyena, to the list of species receiving international protection under the CMS. This inclusion is legally binding, obligating signatory countries to protect these species and minimize obstacles to their migration. The CMS is currently relevant due to the urgent need for international cooperation to conserve migratory species facing threats from habitat loss, climate change, and other human activities.