Monaco Secures Vice-Presidency of Mediterranean Action Plan Bureau

The Principality of Monaco has been unanimously elected as Vice-President of the Mediterranean Action Plan (MAP) Bureau, a key environmental program under the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The election took place during the 24th Conference of Contracting Parties (COP 24) to the Barcelona Convention, held from December 2 to 5, 2025, in Cairo, Egypt. This significant appointment underscores Monaco's sustained dedication to marine and coastal protection in the Mediterranean Sea.

Recognition of Environmental Leadership

Monaco's election to the MAP Bureau's vice-presidency is a direct acknowledgment of its consistent engagement in Mediterranean marine and coastal protection efforts. The unanimous vote during COP 24 highlights the Principality's growing diplomatic influence in regional environmental initiatives and its role as a hub for Mediterranean environmental governance. The Monegasque delegation at the conference was led by Tidiani Couma, Head of Division at the Department of External Relations and Cooperation.

The Barcelona Convention serves as a crucial framework, bringing together Mediterranean countries to coordinate pollution prevention and protection measures. The Mediterranean Action Plan, established in 1975, is the first regional action plan under the UNEP Regional Seas Programme, aiming to foster collaboration for combating marine pollution and promoting sustainable use of marine resources.

Monaco's Enduring Commitment to the Mediterranean

Monaco has a long-standing and proactive history in environmental conservation, particularly concerning the Mediterranean Sea. This commitment is championed by Prince Albert II of Monaco, who has made ocean conservation a central pillar of the Principality's international environmental diplomacy. Monaco's efforts include:

• Establishing marine protected areas.
• Introducing 3D-printed artificial reefs to preserve marine species.
• Setting an ambitious goal of achieving zero single-use plastic waste by 2030, with bans already in place for various plastic items.
• Supporting key organizations such as the Prince Albert II Foundation and MedFund, which finances marine protected areas across the region.

The conference in Cairo, themed 'Blue Growth in the Mediterranean: Towards a Resilient and Sustainable Future,' aligned closely with Monaco's maritime priorities, covering critical issues like marine biodiversity, pollution control (including plastics), and the impacts of climate change.

Increased Influence and Future Outlook

This new vice-presidency grants Monaco increased influence over the direction of the Mediterranean Action Plan at a time when the region faces significant environmental pressures from pollution, overfishing, coastal development, and climate change. The 24th Conference of Contracting Parties was symbolically significant, marking the 50th anniversary of the Mediterranean Action Plan and the 30th anniversary of the Barcelona Convention in its current form. Monaco's consistent engagement, hosting of relevant institutions, and financial support for Mediterranean environmental initiatives have built its credibility, positioning it to shape regional priorities through 2027.