Adopted by the 12th Meeting of the Conference of theParties at Punta del Este, Uruguay, 1-9 June 2015,
through Resolution XII.9

The Ramsar Convention’s Programme on communication, capacity building,
education, participation and awareness (CEPA) 2016‐2024
Background
This is the Convention’s fourth CEPA Programme and it will operate for a nine‐year period. It has
been developed in conjunction with the fourth Strategic Plan of the Convention adopted at COP12
and is consistent with this document. It replaces the annexes to Resolutions VII.9, VIII.31 and X.8.
Appendix 1 includes an explanation of the key terms associated with this Programme, including
communication, education, participation, awareness, and capacity building. Appendix 2 outlines theroles and responsibilities of the CEPA National Focal Points. Appendix 3 includes the possible target
groups and stakeholders of Ramsar’s CEPA programme for 2016-2024.
Promoting ecosystem functions and services and supporting Contracting Parties with high quality
guidance to manage wetlands wisely are central to the Ramsar Convention. The Convention
considers communication, capacity building, education, participation and awareness as important
tools to support the delivery of the Strategic Plan. The Convention recommends that
communication, capacity building, education, participation and awareness are employed in all areas
and at all levels. This programme provides a set of strategies to guide the delivery of thatrecommendation. The commitment of the Contracting Parties in the last triennium is reviewed indetail in Ramsar COP11 DOC.14.
Support for the CEPA Programme should therefore be seen as an investment which aims to help
decision‐makers and mobilise local and national‐scale actions directed at achieving the conservation
and wise use of wetlands, in support of the objectives of the Strategic Plan.
VisionThe vision of the Ramsar Convention’s CEPA Programme is the same as the vision of the StrategicPlan:“Wetlands are conserved, wisely used, restored and their benefits are recognized and valued by all”
The over-arching Goal of the Ramsar Convention’s CEPA Programme“People taking action for the conservation and wise use of wetlands”
Goals and targets
This Programme identifies the vision through nine Goals and the results that should be achieved bymeans of 43 targets. The programme covers full range of CEPA actors but not all goals and targets

apply at every level.
Goal 1

Ensure leadership to support effective implementation of the Programme by providing
institutional mechanisms and establishing and supporting relevant networks.
Supports Goal 4 of the fourth Strategic Plan 2016-2024

Goal 2Integrate CEPA processes, where appropriate, into all levels of policy development,planning and implementation of the Convention.
Supports Goal 4 of the fourth Strategic Plan 2016-2024

Goal 3

Provide support to implementers of wise use principles, especially those with a directrole in site management.
Supports Goal 3 of the fourth Strategic Plan 2016-2024

Goal 4

Build the individual, institutional and collective capacity of people with a direct
responsibility for Ramsar implementation.
Supports Goal 2 of the fourth Strategic Plan 2016-2024

Goal 5Develop and support mechanisms to ensure multi‐stakeholder participation in wetland
management.
Supports Goal 2 of the fourth Strategic Plan 2016-2024

Goal 6

Implement programmes, projects and campaigns targeting diverse sectors of society toincrease awareness, appreciation and understanding of wetlands and the ecosystemservices they provide.
Supports Goal 3 of the fourth Strategic Plan 2016-2024

Goal 7

Recognize and support the role of wetland centres and other environmental centres as
catalysts and key actors for activities that promote Ramsar objectives.
Supports Goal 3 of the fourth Strategic Plan 2016-2024

Goal 8Support the development and distribution of education materials that build awarenessof ecosystem values and services and the value of wetlands for use in formal education
settings, at Ramsar Sites and by all Ramsar actors.
Supports Goal 3 of the fourth Strategic Plan 2016-2024

Goal 9Ensure that the guidance and information provided by the STRP is developed in linewith adopted Resolution and in close collaboration with the CEPA programme anddissemination to the identified target audiences is ensured through the most effective
communications channels.
Supports Goals 1 and 4 of the fourth Strategic Plan 2016-2024

Implementation of the Programme must be undertaken by a number of responsible bodies andpartners of the Convention including, inter alia:
AA:
CEPA:
NRC:
RamSec:
STRP:

Administrative Authority in each country, including the AA National Focal Points
Convention’s CEPA National Focal Points, both government and NGO
National Ramsar Committees / National Wetlands Committees (or equivalent bodies),
where they exist
Ramsar Convention Secretariat
Ramsar Scientific and Technical Review Panel

Ramsar CEPA Programme 2016‐2024

2

STRP NFP:
IOPs:
RRCs:
SM:
WEC:
PS:
CSO:
RRI:

STRP National Focal Points
International Organization Partners, at present BirdLife International, the International
Water Management Institute (IWMI), IUCN, Wetlands International, and the World
Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)Ramsar Regional Centres endorsed by the Convention as Ramsar Regional Initiatives
Site managers
Wetland education/visitor centres
Private sector organizations whose activities directly or indirectly affect wetlands
Civil Society Organizations such as national and local non‐governmental organizations(NGOs) and community‐based organizations (CBOs)
Ramsar Regional Initiatives

This is an indicative list of key actors that may change during the life of the Programme and willundoubtedly vary to some extent from one country to another. As a broad guide to actors that could
contribute to achieving the results, suggested implementers of each target are indicated below using
the abbreviations above, for example {AA}.
Goals and targets
Goal 1

Ensure leadership to support effective implementation of the Programme by providing
institutional mechanisms and establishing and supporting relevant networks.

1.1 Appropriately experienced people to fill the roles of National Government and Non‐governmental Organization CEPA Focal Points (see Appendix 2) nominated by Contracting
Parties and communicated to the Ramsar Secretariat. {AA , CSO}
1.2 National Ramsar/Wetland Committees established to collaborate with relevant
government departments and institutions to mainstream wetlands and their ecosystemservices. {AA, NRC}
1.3 National Focal Points (AA, CEPA and STRP) included as members of National
Ramsar/Wetland Committees where these exist. {AA, NRC}
1.4 Email networks that connect and support Administrative Authorities, National Focal Points,
Site managers and other Ramsar implementers established and supported at global andnational levels. {RamSec, AA, STRP, IOPs}
1.5 Relationships developed and maintained with those organizations that can support Ramsar
objectives through their expertise, their traditional knowledge, their human resources or
through funding established and fostered. {RamSec, AA, IOPs}
1.6 Effectiveness of strategies, especially regarding development and distribution of materials
on wetland education and management, the success of campaigns under WWD evaluated.
{RamSec, AAs, NRC, NFPs}
Goal 2Integrate CEPA processes, where appropriate, into all levels of policy development,planning and implementation of the Convention.

2.1 CEPA expertise involved in the development of guidance by the Convention’s bodies
including the Scientific and Technical Review Panel (STRP) and Standing Committee (SC).
{RamSec, STRP}

Ramsar CEPA Programme 2016‐20243

2.2 Wetland communication (CEPA) plans developed at the appropriate level by Parties(national, basin or site) to support Ramsar implementers. {AA, NRC, CSO}
2.3 Where appropriate, wetland CEPA integrated into national policy and planning relevant towetlands. {AA, CEPA, NRC}
Goal 3

Provide support to implementers of wise use principles, especially those with a directrole in site management.

3.1 The Strategic Plan 2016-2024 adopted by COP12 disseminated and promoted.
3.2 Appropriate guidance materials that support and encourage the wise use of wetlands
produced for use at Ramsar Sites and other wetlands and by wetland networks. {RamSec,
STRP, IOPs, CSO}
3.3 Websites, including the Convention’s website, to be further developed to be fit for purposeand be a useful platform for the sharing of information and resources, including the sharing
of information and experiences among CEPA National Focal Points. {RamSec, STRP, AA}
3.4 Appropriate Ramsar Sites and other wetlands to be celebrated as “demonstration sites” forthe wise use principle, and these sites suitably equipped in terms of capacity, signage, andinterpretive materials. {AA, CEPA, IOPs, CSO, STRP NFPs}
3.5 Secretariat requested to share CEPA stories which illustrate how integration of CEPA canimprove wetland management. {RamSec}
3.6 Collaboration on CEPA with other Conventions, Ramsar’s IOPs, other NGOs, UN agencies
and others ensured through sharing of CEPA experiences and the encouragement ofsynergies. {RamSec, IOPs, CSO, AA, CEPA}
Goal 4

Build the individual, institutional and collective capacity of people with a direct
responsibility for Ramsar implementation.

4.1 Site managers supported to build communication, education, participation and awarenessinto their management plans. {RamSec, STRP, AA, CEPA, SM, RRCs, CSO, STRP NFP}
4.2 Current needs and capacities of wetland site managers and National Focal Points assessed
and the results used to define training and capacity‐building priorities at regional andnational levels. {RamSec, STRP, AA, CEPA, SM, RRCs, STRP NFP}
4.3 Resources provided to produce appropriate wetland management training and capacity
building materials and carry out the prioritized training and capacity building as identified
in 4.2. {RamSec, AA, CEPA, STRP, SM, RRCs, CSO, STRP NFP}
4.4 A network of Ramsar Regional Centres working to agreed standards (such as peer reviewed
materials) supported to deliver capacity building to site managers, National Focal Points
and other relevant stakeholders. {RamSec, RRCs, STRP}
4.5 Partnerships with tertiary education institutions and other relevant organisations aredeveloped to support the production and delivery of wetland management training andRamsar CEPA Programme 2016‐20244

capacity building materials and programmes. {RamSec, STRP, RRCs, CSO, PS, AA, CEPA,
STRP NFP}
4.6 National strategic plans that strengthen the technical capacity and management of local
authorities to incorporate environmental benefits and services of wetlands as strategies for
local and regional development promoted. {AA, CEPA}
Goal 5Develop and support mechanisms to ensure multi-stakeholder participation inwetland management.

5.1 Participation of major stakeholders used by site managers and others as an effective
process for selection of Ramsar Sites and management of all wetlands, including at basin
level. {AA, SM, CEPA, CSO, STRP NFP}
5.2 Participation in wetland management of stakeholder groups with cultural, spiritual,customary, traditional, historical and socio‐economic links to wetlands or thosecommunities who depend on wetlands for their livelihoods is given a high priority. {AA, SM,
CEPA, CSO, RRI}
5.3

The use of practices and traditional knowledge systems that embody appropriate wetland
cultural management by indigenous peoples and local communities recovered,strengthened and encouraged. {AA, CEPA}

5.4 Encourage community participation in wetlands through volunteer programmes which
support the delivery of management objectives. {AA, SM, CSO}
5.5 Relationships with the private sector are sought and developed, including non‐traditional
sectors and those sectors whose activities have a major impact on wise use of wetlands.
{AA, NRC, SM, PS}
Goal 6

Implement programmes, projects and campaigns targeting diverse sectors of society
to increase awareness, appreciation and understanding of wetlands and theecosystem services they provide.

6.1 Wide-reaching programmes, projects and campaigns, including World Wetlands Day,
undertaken with diverse partners to raise awareness, build community support, andpromote stewardship approaches and attitudes towards wetlands, in particular throughthe use of social media. {RamSec, AA, NRC, CEPA, SM, IOPs, RRCs, PS, CSO}
6.2 Awareness enhanced on the monetary and non‐monetary values of wetlands and theirecosystem services to improve understanding of the benefits which wetlands provide.
{RamSec, STRP, AA, CEPA, SM, STRP NFP}
6.3 Photo libraries, promotional videos and other similar tools developed and/or maintained tosupport awareness raising and appreciation of wetlands and their ecosystem services.
{RamSec, AA, CEPA}
6.4 Collaboration with the media, including social media, carried out to promote theconservation and wise use of wetlands and recognition of their ecosystem services todecision‐makers, key wetland users and the broad public. {RamSec, AA, CEPA}

Ramsar CEPA Programme 2016‐2024

5

Goal 7

Recognize and support the role of wetland centres and other environmental centres
as catalysts and key actors for activities that promote Ramsar objectives.

7.1 Wetland education/interpretation or visitor centres and similar facilities established in all
countries as resources permit. {AA, IOPs, WEC}
7.2 National CEPA Focal Points communicating directly with wetland education/visitor centres
to support their delivery of Ramsar messages. {AA CEPA, WEC}
7.3 Wetland education/visitor centres linked nationally and internationally through, global
mechanisms and national expertise in CEPA, to share experience and resources, forexample through the Wetland Link International (WLI) programme of the Wildfowl &Wetlands Trust, WWT (UK) and other initiatives. {AA, CEPA, WEC}
7.4 Partnerships established with other education centres that could play a role in promoting
wetlands and Ramsar objectives. {AA, CEPA, RRCs,WEC}
7.5 A comprehensive database of wetland education centres set up, to be managed throughthe WLI network. Contracting parties to be encouraged to provide information on wetland
centres as part of their national reporting. {RamSec, CEPA, IOPs, CSO, STRP NFPs}
Goal 8Support the development and distribution of education materials that build
awareness of ecosystem values and services and the value of wetlands for use informal education settings, at Ramsar Sites and by all Ramsar actors.

8.1 Wetland education materials that build awareness of the values of wetlands and theirecosystem services developed, promoted and distributed among relevant target audiences.
{STRP, AA, CEPA, WEC, STRP NFP}
8.2 Tertiary education institutions, especially those with water and wetland programmes,
contributed to the production of targeted wetland education materials. {STRP, AA, CEPA,
WEC}
8.3 Cultural and traditional wetland knowledge and practices are incorporated into wetland
education materials. {WEC, CEPA}
8.4 Key messages about wetlands and their ecosystem services regularly reviewed throughdialogue and feedback with all Ramsar actors. {RamSec, AA}.

Goal 9Ensure that the guidance and information provided by the STRP is developed in linewith adopted Resolution XII.5 and in close collaboration with the CEPA programme anddissemination to the identified target audiences is ensured through the most effective
communications channels.

9.1 A series of information fact sheets developed based on identified and agreed large scalequestions as key awareness raising outreach tools. {RamSec, STRP}.
9.2 The Ramsar Briefing Notes and Ramsar Technical Reports developed and disseminated as
pragmatic, working advisory documents targeting policy-makers or wetland practitioners
and to ensure consistency and Ramsar branding. {RamSec, STRP}

Ramsar CEPA Programme 2016‐20246

9.3 The content of Wise Use Handbooks reconfigured as training resource materials thatsummarize wise use site management and effective policy-making. {RamSec}.
9.4 The current STRP website integrated into the Ramsar website. {RamSec}.

Ramsar CEPA Programme 2016‐20247

Appendix 1
Definitions and principles underpinning CEPA
In applying this Programme, it is important that Contracting Parties and other interest groups share
a common understanding of what is meant by the concepts that underpin the acronym CEPA.
Communication, capacity building, education, participation and awareness are all processes thatcan be used for specific purposes and specific target audiences to deliver CEPA aims.
Definitions and principles provided here have been used in formulating this programme and are
drawn from recognised sources and practitioners in this field. The sources are provided at the end of
the document.
Definitions
Communication under the Ramsar Convention can be defined as the interactive process between
stakeholders to exchange information, knowledge and skills on the conservation and wise use of
wetlands to ensure that all stakeholders are able to make informed decisions.
Capacity building, also referred to as Capacity development, concerns institutional change. It is aprocess by which individuals, groups and organisations, institutions and countries develop, enhanceand organize their systems, resources and knowledge to improve their ability, individually andcollectively, to perform functions, solve problems and achieve objectives (OECD, 2006).
Education in its broadest sense is a life-long learning process that can inform, motivate, andempower people to support wetland conservation, not only by fostering changes in the way that
individuals, institutions, businesses and governments operate, but also by inducing lifestyle changes.
It may take place in both formal and informal settings (e.g., interpretation programmes).
Training is the process of increasing or strengthening an individual’s specific knowledge, skills,
attitudes and behaviours that can be taken back to the workplace. It may take place in both formal
and informal settings.
Awareness‐raising is an agenda‐setting and advocacy exercise that triggers your target group to
understand why wetland issues are important to address and what they can do to improve thesituation at stake. It is a constructive and potentially catalytic force that is ultimately aimed at
stimulating your target group (which could include a multitude of stakeholders) to take action forthe conservation and wise use of wetlands (based on Sayer, 2006).
Participation is the involvement of “stakeholders” in the common development, implementationand evaluation of strategies and actions for the conservation and wise use of wetlands. Levels of
involvement and kinds of participation can be highly variable, depending upon both the specificcontext and the decisions of the individuals, groups and institutions leading the process. An
indicative list of the range of possible levels and kinds of participation is shown in Box 1 below.

Ramsar CEPA Programme 2016‐20248Box 1: Levels of participation
Self‐Mobilization
In this model, people participate by taking initiatives to change systems independently of
external institutions. They develop contacts with external institutions for the resources andtechnical advice they need, but retain control over how resources are used. Self‐mobilization canspread if governments and NGOs provide an enabling framework of support. Such self‐initiatedmobilization may or may not challenge existing distributions of wealth and power, but they dotend to foster the most long‐lasting sense of “ownership” in the outcomes.
Interactive Participation
People participate in joint analysis, development of action plans, and formation or strengtheningof local institutions. Participation may be seen as an inherent right, not just as a means toachieve project goals. The process involves interdisciplinary methodologies that seek multiple
perspectives and make use of systemic and structured learning processes. As groups take control
over local decisions and determine how available resources should be used, they often feel anincreasing stake in maintaining structures or practices.
Functional Participation
Participation is sometimes seen by the relevant authorities chiefly as a means to achieve project
goals, especially reduced costs. People may participate by forming groups to meet
predetermined objectives related to the project. Such involvement may be interactive andinvolve shared decision making, but it frequently tends to arise only after the most important
decisions have already been made by the authorities.
Participation for Material Incentives
People can participate by contributing resources, for example labour, in return for food, cash orother material incentives. Farmers may provide the fields and labour, for example, whilst not
being directly involved in experimentation or the process of learning. It is not uncommon to see
this called ‘participation’ in a full sense, but in this case people typically have no stake inprolonging technologies or practices when the incentives end.
Participation by Consultation
People participate by being consulted or by answering questions. Project authorities define
problems and information‐gathering processes, and thus tend to control analysis of the
responses. Such a consultative process often does not imply a share of participants in decision
making, and project staff are not under an obligation or do not feel obliged to take people’sviews on board.
Passive Participation or Participation by being given Information
People participate by being informed on what has been decided or has already happened. It
tends more to involve announcements by an administration or project management than toreflect active attention to other people’s ideas and responses. The information being sharedtends to belong only to project staff.
Manipulative Participation
At this extreme, participation is simply a pretence, with ‘people’s’ representatives on official
boards but who are unelected and have no power.
Adapted from: Participation in Strategies for Sustainable Development, Environmental Planning
Issues No. 7, May 1995 by Stephen Bass, Barry Dalal‐Clayton and Jules Pretty, Environmental
Planning Group, International Institute for Environment and Development.

Ramsar CEPA Programme 2016‐20249

Principles
The CEPA Toolkit developed for CBD National Focal Points introduces CEPA as a tool to effectively
engage and manage multi‐stakeholder dialogue to plan and implement policy. With appropriate
handling (i.e. actively and effectively applying communication, education, participation andawareness principles), these processes develop a sense of ownership of problems. The principles
listed below do not form an all‐inclusive list but are provided to assist you in developing strategies inyour own context.
Communication principles
Some general essential principles on communication:• Effective communication requires trust between parties or at least mutual respect, therefore,
first of all know your audience.
• Effective communication depends on clarity and simplicity: avoid the use of jargon and buzz
words; communicate a little at a time; present information in several ways and use multiple
communication techniques.
• Know your purpose and know your topic and be prepared to back up with stories or facts.
• One of the major barriers to communication is our own ideas and opinions: listen to the actual
message rather than to your own assumptions.
• The meaning of the message is “in the receiver” not in the sender.
• Getting and giving feedback is one of the most crucial parts of effective communication. Like
any other activity, there are specific skills that can enhance feedback and listening is a key skill.
• Develop practical and useful ways to get feedback.
• Selling new ideas takes a lot of time and a lot of effort before they can be implemented.
Principles on capacity building and education
•
•
•
•
•
•
•

Capacity building takes place within individuals or groups of people and cannot be forced upon
them: you cannot “do” capacity building for others, it is an internal process.
Adults are far more likely to reject information that contradicts their own life experiences or
beliefs (Sayers, 2006).
Everybody learns differently: capacity building requires multiple strategies, methods andtechniques to serve multiple needs.
Developing capacity is impacted significantly by the learning environment: create a stimulating
learning environment.
Adults especially need to understand the big picture to recognize the value of each piece of
information they encounter.
Establish connections between information received and knowledge already possessed.
Participants’ feedback is vital for the effective building of capacity.

Participation Principles••••

Encourage active participation of stakeholders in selection and management of Ramsar Sites
and other wetlands.
In considering participation of stakeholders, it is recommended to carefully consider theappropriate level of participation. See Levels of participation, Box 1.
Create, as appropriate, the legal, policy and institutional system to facilitate stakeholder
involvement in national and local decision‐making for the conservation and wise use of
wetlands.
Wise use of wetlands is synonymous with mutual benefits for the wetlands and for human well‐Ramsar CEPA Programme 2016‐2024

10

•
•
•
•

being; this cannot be achieved without participation of stakeholders.
Traditional knowledge and experience of wetland systems should be used to assist in
management of wetlands and complements scientific knowledge.
Participation of indigenous peoples and local communities with a cultural, spiritual, historicaland/or economic interest in a particular wetland is integral to the development of sustainable
management systems.
Participation supports building awareness, knowledge and management skills over time.
Ensuring participation of stakeholders increases commitment and ownership.

Principles on Awareness‐raising
•
•
•

•
•

Ensuring that awareness is raised on a certain wetland issue or challenge does not simply mean
to inform people, it means addressing people’s beliefs and convictions.
If awareness is raised it does not necessarily lead to people taking action for the conservation
and wise use of wetlands. Long lasting change requires skills and incentives to change.
People taking action for the conservation and wise use of wetlands requires 7 steps:
a. Knowledge: your target group knows there is an issue;
b. Desire: your target group imagines a different future;c. Skills ‐ your target group knows what to do to achieve that future;d. Optimism ‐ your target group has confidence or belief in success;e. Facilitation ‐ your target group has the resources and supportive infrastructure to takeaction;f. Stimulation ‐ your target group receives compelling stimuli that promote action;
g. Reinforcement ‐ your target group receives messages regularly that reinforce the original
message or messages (Robinson (1998), cited in Sayers (2006)).
Keep the target group you wish to address as specific as possible: more focus often has more
impact.
From awareness‐raising to people taking action for the conservation and wise use of wetlands
requires continuous planning, monitoring, evaluation and facilitation.

Principles are based on:
Castello, Riccardo Del and Paul Mathias Braun, (2006). Framework on Effective Rural Communication
for Development. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Deutsche
Gesellschaft für Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ). Rome, 2006.
CBD, UNESCO, Commission on Education and Communication, IUCN, (no year). Mainstreaming
Biological Diversity. The role of communication, education and public awareness.
http://cmsdata.iucn.org/downloads/cec_mainstreaming_biological_diversity_cepa_eng.pdf).
Hesselink, Frits, Wendy Goldstein, Peter Paul van Kempen, Tommy Garnett and Jinie Dela, (2007).
Communication, Education and Public Awareness (CEPA). A toolkit for National Focal Points and
NBSAP coordinators (Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity and IUCN: Montreal,
Canada.
Gevers, Ingrid and Esther Koopmanschap, (2012). Enhancing the Wise Use of Wetlands. A Framework
for Capacity Development. Centre for Development Innovation, Wageningen University & Research
centre. ISBN 978‐94‐6173‐406‐8. http://www.ramsar.org/pdf/cop11/doc/cop11‐doc34‐ e‐capacity.pdf
Lucas, Robert W. (2003). The creative training idea book: inspired tips and techniques for engaging

Ramsar CEPA Programme 2016‐202411and effective learning. Library of Congress Cataloging‐in‐Publication Data. ISBN 0‐8144‐ 0733‐1.
OECD, (2006). DAC Guidelines and Reference Series Applying Strategic Environmental Assessment:
Good Practice Guidance for Development Co‐operation, OECD, Paris.
Sayers, Richard.(2006). Principles of awareness‐raising: Information literacy, a case study. Bangkok:
UNESCO Bangkok, 2006. 124 pages. 1. Information literacy. 2. Public awareness. ISBN 92‐9223‐082‐4.
Available at: http://unesdoc.unesco.org/images/0014/001476/147637e.pdf

Ramsar CEPA Programme 2016‐202412

Appendix 2
Roles and responsibilities of the CEPA National Focal Points
1.

In Resolution IX.18 adopted at COP9 in November 2005, the Parties instructed the Standing
Committee at its 34th meeting (SC34) to establish a CEPA Oversight Panel, one of the key tasksof which would be to clarify the broad roles of the two Government and Non‐governmental
CEPA National Focal Points (NFPs) nominated by each Party. (Full details on the task of the CEPA
Oversight Panel are available at http://www.ramsar.org/outreach_oversight_panel.htm.)

2.

The roles and responsibilities of the CEPA NFPs were discussed at the first meeting of the CEPA
Panel in May 2006 and endorsed by SC35. The text below reflects their deliberations and should
be used by Parties to guide their decisions on the nomination, roles, and responsibilities of their
CEPA NFPs.

3.

The rationale for the nomination of CEPA NFPs and key factors to be taken into consideration by
Contracting Parties:
•
•
•

•
•
•
•
•

It is important that both CEPA NFPs be nominated since they bring different skills to the
CEPA Programme.
Nominating a representative of an active NGO engages the NGO members in the CEPA
Programme, gives recognition to their work, and can often bring additional funding to a
CEPA programme.
While it is preferable that the Government NFP should be a CEPA expert, it is recognizedthat many Parties may not be willing to nominate a person outside of their Administrative
Authority, which frequently means that the nominated person will not be a CEPA expert perse.
Some Government NFPs are nominated from within their Administrative Authority and are
not necessarily CEPA experts, which allows for the inclusion of broader skill sets andknowledge.
Maintaining continuity in the national CEPA programmes is important, and with frequent
Government NFP changes, the less frequent changes in the NGO NFP representation could
help provide some continuity.
Collaboration between the two NFPs on their country’s CEPA programme is actively
encouraged.
The NFPs have a key role as members of the National Ramsar/ Wetland Committee, wherethese exist, promoting close contact with other key Administrative Authority personnel (suchas the Daily Contact and the STRP NFP).
Close consultation is desirable between the CEPA NFPs and the Administrative Authority
during the completion of the CEPA-related questions in the National Reports to the COPs.

4.

It is ultimately the task of each Contracting Party to agree precise roles and responsibilities fortheir nominated CEPA National Focal Points (NFPs). These roles and expectations must reflect
the capacity to operate at different levels and the resourcing of the individuals filling thepositions. The Contracting Parties should provide some information to potential NFPs of the
expected time required to fulfill their role and responsibilities.

5.

Suggested major roles and responsibilities of the CEPA NFPs. In providing a supportive
environment in which wetland CEPA planners and practitioners can develop their work, NFPs
should:Ramsar CEPA Programme 2016‐2024

13

•
•
•
•
•
•
•

provide leadership for the development and implementation of a wetland CEPA Action
Plan at an appropriate level (national, subnational, local) as described in this Resolution
and annexed Programme;
be the main points of contact on CEPA matters between a) the Secretariat and theContracting Party and b) between Contracting Parties;
be key members of the National Ramsar/Wetland Committees (if such a body exists) or
similar national structures;assist in the practical CEPA implementation at the national level and in national reportingon CEPA activities to the Ramsar Conference of the Parties;
ensure a high, positive public profile for the Ramsar Convention and its conservation andwise use goals;
be active spokespersons for wetland CEPA; andestablish and maintain any contacts, networks, structures and mechanisms necessary toensure the effective communication of information between relevant actors at all levels
and in all sectors.

Ramsar CEPA Programme 2016‐202414

Appendix 3
Possible target groups and stakeholders of the Ramsar Convention’s Programme oncommunication, capacity building, education, participation and awareness (CEPA) 2016‐
2024
1.

There are a large number of possible target groups for this CEPA Programme which fall within
the broadest category of the general community or civil society. This Appendix identifies 27
subgroups of civil society which can make a significant and immediate difference in the status
and long‐term sustainability of wetlands.

2.

Contracting Parties and others are urged to take this Appendix into consideration for their own
situations in determining which of these are their highest priority target groups in developing
CEPA planning and action.

3.

A fundamental assumption of the CEPA Programme is that the actions taken in response will
result in an increasing number of “actors” who become agents, ambassadors or advocates for
the Convention on Wetlands and its principles. Support for the CEPA Programme should
therefore be seen as an investment which aims to help decision‐makers and mobilize local andnational‐scale actions directed at achieving the conservation and wise use of wetlands.

A.

GOVERNMENTS AT ALL LEVELS
Target Group/Individuals
Environmental policy makers andplanners within local administrations,provincial/state and national
government administrations
Wetland site managers (wardens,
rangers, etc.) within local,
provincial/state, national government
administrations, including catchment orriver basin authorities
National Administrative Authorities of
the Ramsar Convention
National Administrative Authorities andFocal Points for other environment‐
related conventions
National Ramsar Committees and othersimilar consultative and advisorycommittees for Ramsar
Ministers responsible for sustainable
development and education portfolios
and environment‐related conventions
as well as Members of Parliament –national, state/provincial and local.
National aid agencies, bilateral donors
Ambassadors and the staff of overseas
missions.

Ramsar CEPA Programme 2016‐2024

Rationale for engagement
As key decision‐makers at the local, sub‐regional andnational scales their actions can impact wetlands
positively or negatively at the local level orcatchment/river basin scale.
These individuals are key to effective management andto gaining local support and participation.

They take the lead at the national level in implementing
the Convention.
They have the capacity to help deliver a more integrated
approach to managing land and water resources,
including wetlands.
They have an important role in advising governments on
implementation of Ramsar and the other conventions.
Their direct input to policy setting, budget allocation, etc.
can be important for supporting Ramsar implementation.
Members of Parliament in the opposition parties may bein this position in the future.
They deal with governments on a range of sustainable
development issues.
They can assist in ensuring that national governments
are better informed about Ramsar.
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B.

C.

THE EDUCATION SECTOR AND LEARNING INSTITUTIONS
Target Group/Individuals

Rationale for engagement

Education ministries, curriculum
development authorities, examination
boards and universities, in‐service
trainers, etc.

All these sectors in education can assist in including
wetland conservation and wise use issues in school andother formal curricula.

National and international teachers’
associations

In some countries the incorporation of Ramsar/wetland
principles into curricula and learning programmes
generally can be accelerated through working
collaboratively with teacher associations.

National and international networks,
associations and councils ofenvironmental education

Wetlands and water issues can be incorporated into thecurricula and other materials being developed by theseorganizations.

Wetland/environment centres, zoos,
aquaria, botanic gardens, etc.

These institutions have the capacity to promote theRamsar message to a broad range of visitors.

National and international networks oflibraries

Library networks provide an excellent avenue for making
information on Ramsar and wetlands more accessible to
the general community.

CIVIL SOCIETY
Target Group/Individuals

Rationale for engagement

Landowners (especially those who areresponsible for managing wetlands)

They make decisions which impact directly upon
wetlands.

National and local non‐governmentorganizations

They can be vital for achieving action at national andlocal level.

Indigenous peoples and local
communities

They may have useful knowledge of sustainable wetland
management and may have an ongoing cultural
association with wetlands.

Women

In many cultures women tend to be more
entrepreneurial in the family unit, more amenable tochanging lifestyle habits, and may communicate more
often with the children within the family.

Children, youth

Children are the next generation of environmental
managers and caretakers.

Those responsible for electronic andprint media

They have the capacity to convey positive andinformative messages about wetlands at local, national
or international levels.

Community leaders and prominent
people – athletes, sports people,
religious leaders, artists, royalty,
teachers, opinion leaders, etc.

Community leaders can use their public profile to draw
attention to issues; and celebrity figures may be ideal
ambassadors to promote the Ramsar message.

Ramsar CEPA Programme 2016‐2024

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D.

THE BUSINESS SECTOR
Target Group/Individuals

E.

Rationale for engagement

Potential sponsors, supporters

Business sponsors and supporters can assist theConvention develop wise use materials and activities atinternational, national and local levels and also ensurethat their business activities are not contrary to theobjectives of the Convention.

Key business sectors such as water andsanitation; irrigation and water supply;
agriculture; mining; forestry; fishing;tourism; waste disposal; energy

They have the potential to have significant negative
impacts on wetlands.

Professional Associations

Some of these will have the potential to have major
negative impacts on wetlands.

INTERNATIONAL AND REGIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
Target Group/Individuals

Rationale for engagement

Global organizations – World Bank,
Global Environment Facility, United
Nations Development Programme,
United Nations Environment
Programme, Global Water Partnership,
etc.

They work with governments on a range of sustainable
development issues and may have access to funding
programmes.

Regional organizations – South PacificRegional Environment Programme,
European Commission, Southern Africa
Development Community, Regional
Development Banks, ASEAN
Environmental Programme, etc.

As above.

Global NGO partners (BirdLife, IWMI,
IUCN, Wetlands International, Wetlands& Wildfowl Trust, and WWF) and otherinternational and regional NGOs

While Ramsar’s six official NGO partners are active inpromoting the Ramsar Convention, there is a need to
involve more regional and international NGOs in
communicating the Ramsar message.

The secretariats of other environment‐
related instruments (CBD, UNCCD, CMS,UNFCCC, CITES, World Heritage, MAB)

Working with selected Secretariats can increase synergy
among the conventions at the global and national scales
bringing benefits for Ramsar.

Ramsar CEPA Programme 2016‐202417