First Mediterranean Meeting of Ramsar Cities: Mediterranean cities united for the protection of urban and peri-urban wetlands

On Friday, 10 October 2025, the first meeting of accredited “Wetland Cities under the Ramsar Convention” in the Mediterranean region was held online, co-organised by MedWet and Ramsar France, with the support of the French Biodiversity Office (OFB).

 

 

This bilingual webinar (French–English) brought together Mediterranean and peri-Mediterranean cities accredited as Ramsar Cities, along with municipal representatives and key stakeholders involved in the management and promotion of urban wetlands.

A milestone for regional cooperation

Wetlands play a crucial role in environmental resilience and the well-being of urban and peri-urban populations. Through this webinar, MedWet and Ramsar France aimed to strengthen the Mediterranean dynamic around the “Wetland City” label and encourage exchanges among committed cities.

The event made it possible to:

  • Create a space for exchange between Mediterranean accredited cities;
  • Share experiences and local good practices;
  • Identify common challenges faced by cities;
  • And formulate recommendations for the upcoming Mayors’ Circle in Hungary.

Inspiring presentations and testimonies

The meeting opened with a presentation by Chris Rostron (MedWet) on the role of the MedWet Initiative within the Independent Advisory Committee on Wetland Cities, followed by an overview of the French Ramsar City network by Bastien Coïc (Ramsar France). Isabelle Perroud (MedWet) then introduced the CEPA Programme within MedWet, before Sana Mezoughi (MedWet) highlighted the Mediterranean roots and creation history of the Wetland City label.

The testimonies of accredited cities formed the core of the webinar, showcasing their achievements, challenges, and ambitions to strengthen the integration of wetlands into local policies.

A collective discussion concluded the session, emphasising a shared commitment to enhance regional cooperation and revitalise the Mediterranean Ramsar Cities network.

 

 

Key dates to remember

  • 🏛️ Next Mayors’ Circle: to be held in Hungary, in the Ramsar City of Tata, from 27 to 29 November 2025.
  • 📅 Next call for applications for Wetland City Accreditation: to be launched in 2026, with results to be announced at COP17 in Panama City, in July 2028.