Protecting nature, taking into account the impact of development and construction on the environment, promoting education and information on conservation, and coordinating research: these are the commitments made by the States Parties to the Bern Convention.
The Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (ETS No. 104, Bern Convention) is one of the oldest environmental treaties still in force today and the only treaty for nature conservation in Europe.
Established by the Council of Europe in 1979, it has been ratified by European and African countries as well as by the European Union, all of which are committed to protecting wildlife, encompassing both species and their habitats.
The Convention is an essential Pan-European contribution to achieving a sustainable future for the planet and to ensuring that present and future generations can fully enjoy their human rights.
It provides a framework for collaborative efforts to preserve biodiversity, highlighting the importance of international and multistakeholder cooperation in nature conservation.
CONVENTION ON THE CONSERVATION OF EUROPEAN WILDLIFE AND NATURAL HABITATS
Preamble
Chapter I – General provisions
Chapter II – Protection of habitats
Chapter III – Protection of species
Chapter IV – Special provisions for migratory species
Chapter V – Supplementary provisions
Chapter VI – Standing Committee
Chapter VII – Amendments
Chapter VIII – Settlement of disputes
Chapter IX – Final provisions
APPENDICES
Appendix I
Appendix II
Appendix III
Appendix IV
EXPLANATORY REPORT TO THE CONVENTION ON THE CONSERVATION OF EUROPEAN WILDLIFE AND NATURAL HABITATS
