Barcelona Convention

The 24th Meeting of the Contracting Parties (COP24)
Barcelona Convention
The Barcelona Convention (formally: Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment and the Coastal Region of the Mediterranean) is a regional, legally binding framework dedicated to preventing and reducing pollution in the Mediterranean Sea, conserving marine and coastal ecosystems, and promoting sustainable development in the Mediterranean basin.

Originally adopted in 1976 (as the Convention for the Protection of the Mediterranean Sea Against Pollution) and entering into force in 1978, the Convention was amended in 1995 to broaden its scope, and the revised version entered into force in 2004.

Key principles embedded in the Convention include the precautionary principle, the polluter-pays principle, and the integration of environmental protection with sustainable development objectives.
Barcelona Convention

The Barcelona Convention is supported by a set of seven Protocols, each of which addresses a more specific domain of Mediterranean environmental policy. These instruments together form what is known as the Barcelona system (or the MAP – Mediterranean Action Plan – legal framework) as follow:

1. Dumping Protocol

Regulates dumping of wastes from ships, aircraft, or incineration at sea.

2. Prevention & Emergency:

Prevention of pollution from ships, and cooperation in emergencies.

3. Land-Based Sources:

Cairo is the capital and largest city, known for its bustling markets, historical sites, and vibrant culture. Other important cities include Alexandria, Giza, and Luxor.

4. Specially Protected Areas / Biodiversity:

Egypt's culture is a blend of ancient traditions and modern influences. The official language is Arabic, and Islam is the predominant religion.

5. Protocol on Offshore Exploitation:

Pollution and environmental protection related to exploration/exploitation of continental shelf, seabed, subsoil.

6. Protocol on Hazardous Wastes (Transboundary Movements):

Regulates transboundary movement and disposal of hazardous wastes.

7. Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) / ICZM Protocol

Promotes integrated planning, sustainable use and management of coastal zones.

Egypt, as a Mediterranean coastal state with a long coastline (on the Mediterranean, especially around Alexandria and the Nile Delta area), has a particular stake in the successful implementation and strengthening of the Barcelona system. Hosting COP24 offers significant strategic, environmental, political, and economic opportunities.
Marseille

Marseille

France
Alexandria

Alexandria

Egypt
Antalya

Antalya

Turkey
Lattaki

Lattaki

Syria
Venice

Venice

Italy
Beirut

Beirut

Lebanon
COP24