At CMS COP15, Parties adopted a decision that strengthens recognition of pastoralism and rangelands in the conservation of migratory species.

The process, supported through the Scientific Council Working Group on Pastoralism and CMS-listed Species, helped shape recommendations promoting sustainable rangeland management and closer integration of pastoral systems into biodiversity policy. The mandate of the Working Group has also been extended to further develop practical guidance and cooperation across relevant UN partners.

With 2026 approaching as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists, the decision reinforces growing international attention to the role of pastoral landscapes in biodiversity conservation.

From BiodivEarth, we welcome this progress supported by Yolda Initiative, a member of our Community of Practice, alongside other partners. Mobile pastoralism and well-managed rangelands are key to ecological connectivity, species conservation, and resilient livelihoods.