The Central Asian Mammals Initiative (CAMI) – a regional strategy launched by the UN Environment-administered Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) - has gained further momentum, as more experts are becoming engaged in new partnerships to meet conservation needs.

Through CAMI, the Convention is expanding its activities in Central Asia to conserve large migratory mammals and their habitats. The initiative provides a common framework to coordinate conservation work in the region and coherently address major threats.

On 5 July 2016, German and Kyrgyz Government officials, representatives of the UNEP/CMS Secretariat and the Secretariat of the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection Program (GSLEP) met in Berlin to ensure the long-term survival of the Snow Leopard.

GSLEP coordinates conservation measures among the 12 Snow Leopard Range States and aims to preserve landscapes for Snow Leopard conservation. CAMI and GSLEP will work together towards securing the survival of the species, which is one of the most endangered big cats in the world.

At the expert workshop, titled ‘Setting Priorities for the Implementation of the Central Asian Mammals Initiative (CAMI),’ held from 22 to 26 August 2016 on the Isle of Vilm, scientists discussed how best to implement the CAMI Programme of Work.

Conservation challenges were considered when reviewing current and planned projects for ten out of fifteen species covered under CAMI to enhance cooperation. Species experts provided advice on conservation needs of the Snow Leopard, the Asiatic Cheetah and other species and developed eight project proposals. The CMS Secretariat received important advice from researchers and government representatives on how to strengthen the implementation of CAMI.

CMS facilitates international cooperation between Range States, through which migratory animals pass. It serves as a global platform for countries to conserve and, when possible, sustainably use migratory animals across their range while keeping population numbers at healthy levels.

For more information please contact veronika.lenarz@cms.int