The new strategy and action plan
The Development of the New MAB Strategy and Action Plan
The UNESCO Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme is embarking on a transformative journey to shape its future through the development of a new Strategy and Action Plan, set to guide the global network of biosphere reserves from 2026 onward. This inclusive and participatory process, initiated at the 35th Session of the MAB International Coordinating Council (MAB-ICC) in June 2023, aims to strengthen the Programme's role in fostering sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and harmonious human-nature interactions.
Key Milestones in the Drafting Process
1.Mandate and Procedure
In 2023, the MAB-ICC mandated the MAB Secretariat to develop a work programme for drafting the new Strategy and Action Plan, overseen by the MAB-ICC Bureau. The process integrates findings from the mid-term evaluation of the 2016–2025 MAB Strategy and Lima Action Plan, ensuring continuity and addressing emerging global challenges. The draft Strategy and Action Plan will be submitted to the 5th WCBR for endorsement, followed by adoption during the MAB-ICC session.
2.Establishment of the Drafting Group
At its meeting on 29 January 2024, the MAB Bureau meetings endorsed the preparatory process towards the Congress, including the drafting process of the new MAB Strategy and the Action Plan (2025-2035), and decided to set up a Drafting Group for the new MAB Strategy and the Action Plan (2025-2035). A diverse Group—composed of two Co-Chairs and 12 members selected for expertise, geographical balance, and gender equality—began its work in April 2024. The Group operates under the Bureau's oversight with the support from the MAB Secretariat.
3.Participatory and transparent process
oFriends of the Drafting Group Meetings: Held during the 36th MAB-ICC Session (July 2024) in Agadir, Morocco, these open forums allowed ICC Member States, observers, and stakeholders to share priorities and insights.
oVirtual Information Briefings: On 6–7 November 2024, over 400 representatives from MAB National Committees, Biosphere Reserves, and partner organizations participated in online sessions to review the draft’s structure and key components.
oGlobal Consultation on the 1st draft: From December 2024 to February 2025, the MAB community were invited by the Drafting Group to comment on the first draft of the document through online submission. The 1st draft builds on the experience and lesson learnt from implementing the MAB Strategy and its Lima Action Plan, as well as inputs gathered through the participatory process. This consultation has received more than 200 submissions, which will be carefully considered by the Drafting to capture the collective perspectives of the MAB Community.
