North Africa Programme North Africa Programme 2017-2020

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2017-2020 North Africa Programme North Africa Programme 2017-2020

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY...... 4 1. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND ...... 5 2. IUCN IN NORTH AFRICA...... 7 2.1 IUCN Members and partners in North Africa ...... 7 2.2 Results from previous programmes...... 10 3. REGIONAL SITUATION ANALYSIS ...... 12 3.1 Overview of key biodiversity challenges and main actions implemented in North African countries...... 12 Overall situation: biodiversity status and trends in North Africa...... 12 Protected areas ...... 13 Species assessments, protection and recovery...... 18 Conservation and recovery of ecosystems...... 20 Addressing climate change and desertification...... 25 Assessing and preserving ecosystems services...... 29 3.2 Main needs and challenges to address in the North-Africa programme 2017-2010...... 30 4. THE NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020: CORE AREAS, RESULTS AND APPROACHES...... 34 4.1 Core programme areas...... 34 4.2 Overview of the programme...... 35 PROGRAMME AREA 1: Valuing and conserving nature...... 36 PROGRAMME AREA 2: Promoting and Supporting Effective and Equitable Governance of Natural Resources...... 39 PROGRAMME AREA 3: Deploying nature-based solutions to address societal challenges...... 41 4.3. Description of the programme: results and approaches...... 43 PROGRAMME AREA 1: Valuing and conserving nature ...... 43 PROGRAMME AREA 2: Promoting and Supporting Effective and Equitable Governance of Natural Resources...... 51 PROGRAMME AREA 3: Deploying Nature-based solutions to address societal challenges...... 56 5. MODALITIES FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROGRAMME...... 61 Working together...... 61 Efficient implementation and mobilisation of resources...... 62 Programme monitoring and reporting...... 64 6. HUMAN RESOURCES NEEDED TO IMPLEMENT THE PROGRAMME...... 65 ACRONYMS...... 66

Visitors at the Ichkeul National Park © IUCN/Irene Morell EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

There is little doubt that 2015 will be looked back upon as pivotal year in the North Morocco coast © Miguel CC BY 3.0 relationship between people and planet. It will be seen as the year when the world finally agreed on a common vision for the future and demonstrated that the collective will to make it happen is there. But cautious optimism is warrant- ed. While the adoption of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the historic agreement in Paris to tackle climate change represent the end of an arduous journey, a new one every bit as challenging is barely beginning.

In many ways, the IUCN Programme 2017-2020 in North Africa represents a blueprint for realising many of the ambitions of the post-2015 agenda. The Pro- gramme embraces and assimilates the new momentum generated by the 2015 agreements and captures them in a programme of work that exploits IUCN’s strengths, taking advantage of the Union’s knowledge and reach to move agreements into concrete action. Moreover, the Programme breaks away from the once-widespread misconception that global challenges must each be addressed separately, and instead recognises that environmental, economic and even political concerns often share direct and indirect drivers, and can similar- ly benefit from common solutions.

The Programme also reflects IUCN’s conviction that a steady increase in global wellbeing can only be achieved through an enhanced understanding of the planet’s complex life-support systems and the predominant global and regional trends currently acting upon them – urbanisation, economic growth, burgeoning consumption, disappearing biodiversity, wealth inequality, climate change, population growth and many others.

The IUCN Programme 2017-2020 in North Africa represents a blueprint for realising many of the ambitions of the post-2015 agenda

IUCN · NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 4 1. INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND

The UICN North Africa Programme 2017-2020 has been elaborated in consultation and with the participation of all IUCN Members and Partners in North Flamingos in Tunisia © Mikhail Yablokov African countries. The Programme takes into account the aims of the Global IUCN Programme for the same period, the specific needs of North Africa as identified in the situation analysis and the results and recommendations of the IUCN Regional Conservation Forum for North Africa that was held in El Cairo, Egypt, in October 2015.

The Programme involves 5 countries (Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco and Tu- nisia) and will be implemented in close cooperation with all UICN Members, national authorities and national and regional partners’ organisations. The involvement of all IUCN Members and partners is crucial to achieve the expected results of the programme. They will also contribute with their own activities to the achievement of the main targets set in the programme. IUCN-Med and its partners will undertake concerted action to further strengthen and amplify their efforts in developing effective solutions for nature conservation in North Africa.

The current Programme builds on the work achieved in the previous programmes (2008-2012, 2013-2016) and aims to contribute to implementing key international processes such as the Strategic Plan 2010-2020 for Biodiversity adopted by the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), and the post-2015 development agenda to reach, by 2030, the Sustainable Devel- opment Goals (SDGs).

5 NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 · IUCN The Programme involves 5 countries (Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco and Tunisia) and will be implemented in close cooperation with all UICN Members, national authorities and national and regional partners’ organisations.

The programme has been prepared also taking into account the IUCN Mediter- ranean programme and the most relevant initiatives and strategies in the Med- iterranean region, in particular the UNEP/MAP Mid-Term Strategy 2016-2021 (MTS) and the Mediterranean Strategy for Sustainable Development 2016-2025 (MSSD). The MTS is meant to guide the path for the protection of the marine and coastal environment of the Mediterranean region to achieve Good Envi- ronmental Status, and the MSSD aims to harmonise the interactions between socio-economic and environmental goals, for securing a sustainable future for the Mediterranean region consistent with the Sustainable Development Goals.

Furthermore, a number of cooperation agreements have been signed between IUCN-Med and some national and international organisations for the implementation of relevant actions in the Mediterranean region and in North Afri- can countries, which have been taken into account for the preparation of this programme. In particular, IUCN-Med implements a joint programme with the MAVA Foundation that aims to develop strategic actions to address key biodiversity conservation challenges over the period 2015‐2019.

IUCN-Med has also signed agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) with international and regional organisations, as the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM-FAO), the Mediterranean Action Plan (UNEP-MAP) Secretariat, the Union for the Maghreb Arab, as well with national authorities (HCEFLCD of Morocco, DGF Algeria, Ministry of Environment Italy, etc.), which identify common areas of interest and specific activities to be jointly implemented.

IUCN · NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 6 2. IUCN IN NORTH AFRICA

2.1 IUCN MEMBERS AND PARTNERS IN NORTH AFRICA

The long-term goal of IUCN in North Africa is to preserve biodiversity compo- nents and restore degraded ecosystems. The development of knowledge and skills to achieve this goal is one of the constants and strengths of IUCN.

Following a recommendation from its Members in North Africa, IUCN started in 2009 a specific programme for the region, aimed at achieving the objectives of the IUCN’s Global Programme while taking into account the specific needs of North Africa.

The IUCN’s Programme for North Africa is coordinated by the Centre for Med- iterranean Cooperation located in the city of Malaga in Spain and is implemented in cooperation with all the IUCN Members in North Africa and with the participation and collaboration of relevant partners from the region.

Currently, IUCN has 25 Members in North Africa and many partners’ organisations that contribute the implementation of the programme, as well as a number of relevant experts who are members of the IUCN Commissions providing scientific support and advice to projects and initiatives.

IUCN Members in North African countries (in 2016)

Algeria (3):

• Ministère des Ressources en Eau et de l’Environnement • Association Ecologique de Boumerdès • Mouvement écologique algérien

Egypt (4):

• El Maktab El Arabi Lei Shabab Wal Biah • Nature Conservation Egypt • Arab Network for Environment and Development • Center for Environment and Development for the Arab Region and Europe

Morocco (11):

• Haut-Commissariat aux Eaux et Forêts et à la Lutte Contre la Désertification • Association Moroccoaine pour l’Ecotourisme et la Protection de la Nature • Société Protectrice des Animaux et de la Nature • Association Ribat Al Fath pour le Développement Durable • Groupe de Recherche pour la Protection des Oiseaux au Morocco • Club Moroccoain pour l’Environnement et le Développement • Fondation EcoSylva • Association de Gestion Intégrée des Ressources • Association des Enseignants des Sciences de la Vie et de la Terre • Association Moroccoaine pour la Chasse durable • Association Moroccoaine pour la Protection de l’Environnement et le Climat

7 NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 · IUCN Tunisia (7): Birdwatching Ichkeul © Tunisia Ecotourism • Ministère de l’Environnement et du Développement Durable • Alliance Femme et Environnement • Association Nationale du développement durable et de la Conservation de la Vie sauvage. • Association Tunisianne pour la Protection de la Nature et de l`Environnement • Association Les Amis des Oiseaux • Fédération Nationale des Associations des Chasseurs et des Associations de Chasse Spécialisées. • Association pour la protection de l’Environnement et le Développement Durable de Bizerte

Partners – National organisations

• Algeria: Direction Générale des Forêts • Egypt: Ministry of State for Environmental Affairs • Libya: Environmental General Authority • Tunisia: Direction Générale des Forêts • Morocco: Fondation Mohamed VI pour la protection de l’Environnement

Partners – Regional organisations

• MAVA Foundation • Arab Maghreb Union • Regional Activity Centre for Specially Protected Areas (RAC/SPA), established by the Contracting Parties to the Barcelona Convention • Critical Ecosystems Partnership Fund (CEPF).

IUCN · NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 8 Currently, IUCN has 25 Members in North Africa and many partners’ organisations that contribute the implementation of the programme, as well as a number of relevant experts who are members of the IUCN Commissions providing scientific support and advice to projects and initiatives.

IUCN Commissions supporting the North Africa Programme

• Commission on Ecosystems Management (CEM)1 • Species Survival Commission (SSC)2 • Commission on Environmental Law (CEL)3 • Commission on Social, Economic and Environmental Policies (CEESP)4 • World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA)5 • Commission on Education and Communication (CEC)6

Number of experts from North African countries in the IUCN Commissions 2013-2016 (Source: IUCN Portal)

TOTAL [Expert in COMMISSION WCPA WCEL SSC CEM CEC CEESP commission/ country] Egypt 14 2 13 15 12 3 59 Tunisia 11 3 15 7 0 1 37 Morocco 7 2 17 9 7 4 46 Algeria 6 3 18 9 5 1 42 Libya 2 0 5 1 0 0 8 TOTAL 40 10 68 41 24 9 192 [North Africa] TOTAL [Expert in the 2713 1475 10385 1271 1419 1332 18595 world]

(1) https://www.iucn.org/about/union/commissions/cem/ (2) http://www.iucn.org/about/work/programmes/species/who_we_are/about_the_species_ survival_commission_/ (3) https://www.iucn.org/about/union/commissions/cel/cel_about/ (4) http://www.iucn.org/about/union/commissions/ceesp/ceesp_about/ (5) http://www.iucn.org/about/work/programmes/gpap_home/gpap_wcpa/ (6) https://www.iucn.org/about/union/commissions/cec/

9 NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 · IUCN 2.2 RESULTS FROM PREVIOUS PROGRAMMES

Since 2008, the IUCN Med has worked with government authorities, as well as local NGOs, academic institutions and the private sector to strengthen cooperation in the conservation of the Mediterranean’s natural resources. In order to guide conservation actions, IUCN-Med has provided training on extinction risk assessments of species, Identification and protection of important areas for biodiversity conservation, management planning and sustainable development.

The mid-term evaluation of North Africa Programme 2013-2016 showed that the projects and initiatives implemented have greatly contributed to the efforts for improving knowledge and promoting conservation of important biodiversity areas (KPAs, IPAs, MPAs, etc.), as well as developing tools and assessments that will assist better decision making on nature conservation and management of natural resources (e.g. GIS portals, databases, etc.). Some other relevant examples are presented below.

Capacity building for nature conservation and sustainable use of natural resources was addressed in a number of projects and initiatives undertaken in the previous programme, which included training activities, workshops, developing guidance and networks, sharing information, experiences and know-how among different countries, organisations and relevant stakeholders. In particular capacity building for species conservation was addressed through the adoption of a common methodology and training of regional and local conservation managers for the design and implementation of conservation strategies for threatened species in Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia. Capacity building for addressing climate change was also covered in a regional project (SEARCH) aimed at developing a resilience framework for local action planning capacities and methodologies to increase climate change resilience through joint learning, planning and testing by stakeholders in demonstration sites, involving several countries (Egypt, Morocco, Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine).

The programme also paid special attention to improving governance through developing a situation analysis to identify needs and strengthen capacities of IUCN members and civil society in general on biodiversity and natural resources governance. Some relevant examples include the analysis of governance for Marine Protected Areas carried out in Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia. In- formation and available tools to enable marine spatial planning and improve governance on the management and conservation of natural resources in the Alboran Sea were shared through the Geoportal ALBORAN7 dedicated to this important marine area, which involves three countries (Algeria, Morocco and Spain). The capacities of Mediterranean countries to implement Integrated Coastal Zone Management and apply the principles of the ICZM protocol have been strengthened through the development of a Shared ICZM Govern- ance Platform (PEGASO SDI).

(7) http://www.iucn-geoportalboran.org/en/

IUCN · NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 10 Capacity building for addressing climate change was also covered in a regional project (SEARCH) aimed at developing a resilience framework for local action planning capacities.

Awareness raising and communication activities on biodiversity values and conservation needs has also been focused in a significant number of projects that implemented relevant activities to share and disseminate information on biodiversity and ecosystems services among relevant stakeholders, including national administrations and civil society organisations. For example, awareness raising and communication about the MPA concept was implemented through a number of workshops for fishermen, national workshops on MPAs and consultation meetings with local authorities and users.

In contrast, more limited efforts were made in on-site conservation measures with relatively fewer projects implementing management and practical solutions on the ground, although these experiences gave special attention to the participation of civil society organisations and local stakeholders. A Small- Scale Initiatives Programme for Civil Society Organizations (PPI-OSCAN) in North African countries (Algeria, Libya, Morocco and Tunisia) supported field projects related to the conservation of biodiversity and sustainable management of natural resources. The programme contributes to strengthen the capacities and the participation of NGOs and local stakeholders in sustainable use of natural resources and nature conservation, promoting the implementation of pilot and demonstration projects related to traditional and innovative practices.

In the first Call for applications, 248 project proposals were received from associations based in the four countries as follows: 57 proposals from Algeria, 10 from Libya, 75 from Morocco, and 106 from Tunisia. In the final selection 37 projects were approved: 10 in Algeria, 5 in Libya, 10 in Morocco and 12 in Tunisia.

11 NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 · IUCN 3. REGIONAL SITUATION ANALYSIS

3.1 OVERVIEW OF KEY BIODIVERSITY CHALLENGES AND MAIN AC- TIONS IMPLEMENTED IN NORTH AFRICAN COUNTRIES

A regional situation analysis was prepared to inform the development of the 2017–2020 North Africa Programme. This analysis aimed to identify the main conservation needs and challenges taking also into account the efforts undertaken in the countries and the main results achieved in recent times.

The biodiversity status and trends as well as the main actions undertaken for its conservation are well documented in the latest national reports submitted by the countries to the Convention on Biological Diversity (2014). These reports, together with other information available from the countries and other relevant sources (e.g. IUCN databases and reports, Mid-term evaluation of the previous North African Programme, etc.) provided the basis for the identification of the main challenges and opportunities that shall be addressed and seized in this programme.

Overall situation: biodiversity status and trends in North Africa

Due to their location in the confluence of several bio-geographical regions, the North African countries are home to a wide variety of ecosystems and terrestrial and aquatic life. Tropical, sub-tropical, Mediterranean and Atlantic envi- ronments harbour a unique biodiversity that contributes to the economy and supports human wellbeing.

We can distinguish seven major ecosystem types in the region: freshwater, marine and coastal, mountain, forest, steppe, Saharan and desert ecosystems and agro-ecosystems. These ecosystems include subtypes and habitats that are exclusive and very representative of the region, such as the oases, the Alfa (Stipa) grasslands, temporary rivers or wadies, the cedar forests and the coral reefs, just to mention a few of them. These ecosystems hold rich and diverse plant and animal communities, including many endemic species of the region.

As worldwide, the state of biodiversity is declining and the pressures upon it are increasing in North Africa. Biodiversity is deteriorating at the level of ecosystems, species and populations, and genetic diversity is also declining. The losses are due to a range of threats including habitat loss and fragmentation, overexploitation and unsustainable use of natural resources, pollution, invasive species and climate change. These pressures are driven by a range of socio-economic drivers, mainly the growing population and limited human and financial resources allocated to its protection. Climate change will act synergis- tically with other threats with serious consequences for biodiversity.

The degradation of biodiversity undeniably has an impact on the human wellbeing and economic welfare. Aware of these negative trends and their consequences, the North African countries have strengthened their efforts to halt biodiversity loss.

IUCN · NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 12 As worldwide, the state of biodiversity is declining and the pressures upon it are increasing in North Africa.

Significant progress has been recorded in the last decades in the consider- ation of biodiversity in national policies and strategies. A number of relevant strategies, programmes and legislative instruments have been adopted in the countries to enhance the conservation of biodiversity, including its integration into relevant sectors such as agriculture, forestry, fisheries and tourism. The countries are committed to the implementation of the main biodiversity related agreements, in particular the Convention of Biological Diversity (CBD), the Ramsar Convention, the Bonn Convention, the ACCOBAMS and the Barcelona Convention.

Many actions have been implemented to try to reverse the negative trends in biodiversity, such as designation of protected areas, implementation of conservation strategies for threatened species and habitat types, recovery of ecosystems, strategies against invasive species, dissemination of best practices, awareness-raising, etc. key challenges for biodiversity conservation in the region and some of the main efforts and actions undertaken to tackle the most important threats and are summarily presented below.

Protected areas

Protected areas are one of the most important and effective tools to conserve biodiversity, preventing the potential loss of species and habitats, as well as fulfilling the international commitments. All North African countries - havein creased the designation of protected areas (see current status in table 1) and are preparing strategies and setting mechanisms to improve their management.

13 NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 · IUCN Table 1. Protected areas in North African countries

COUNTRY Nr. PAs % coverage Protected areas (categories) 44 % land • 9 National Parks of which 6 UNESCO-MAB Biosphere area Reserves, 1 Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Importance (Barcelona Convention) and 1 World Heritage 1% marine Site area • 4 Nature Reserves Algeria 78 • 1 Marine Nature Reserve which is also a Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Importance (Barcelona Convention) • 4 Hunting Reserves, 5 Hunting Centres • 5 Cultural Parks • 50 Ramsar Sites, Wetlands of International Importance

11 % land • 3 National Parks area • 2 UNESCO-MAB Biosphere Reserves 3% marine • 1 World Heritage Sites area • 2 Natural Monuments • 13 Protected Areas • 3 Protected Landscapes • 5 Strict Nature Reserves Egypt 50 • 11 Multiple Use Management Areas • 2 Nature Conservation Reserves • 4 Ramsar Sites, Wetlands of International Importance • 1 Marine Protected Areas • 1 Developing Resources Protected Areas • 1 Geological Protected Areas • 1 Natural Heritage Protected Areas

0,3 % land • 4 National Parks area • 4 Nature Reserves Libya 24 1% marine • 14 Protected Areas area • 2 Ramsar Sites, Wetlands of International Importance

34 % land • 10 National Parks area • 4 UNESCO-MAB Biosphere Reserves 1% marine • 4 Biological Reserves Morocco 323 area • 24 Ramsar Sites, Wetlands of International Importance • 1 Specially Protected Areas of Mediterranean Importance (Barcelona Convention)

IUCN · NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 14 COUNTRY Nr. PAs % coverage Protected areas (categories) 5 % land • 17 National Parks area • 4 UNESCO-MAB Biosphere Reserves 1% marine • 1 World Heritage Sites area • 17 Nature Reserves • 4 Fauna Reserves • 1 Not Reported Tunisia 101 • 9 Natural Reserves • 41 Ramsar Sites, Wetlands of International Importance • 1 Bird Reserve • 3 Specially Protected Areas of Mediterranean Importance (Barcelona Convention) • 46 Important Areas for Bird Conservation (ZICO)

Source: World Database on Protected Areas (WDPA) http://www.protectedplanet.net and according to national authorities.

In spite of the numerous efforts made in the establishment of the protected areas networks, there is a need to assess the completeness of coverage and status of existing protected area network and to identify additional sites to reach a representative network. Moreover, critical problems regarding the effective management of protected areas still exist, including the lack of sufficient and well trained staff and effective governance, under-funding and lost opportunities to generate substantial revenues.

The involvement and participation of relevant stakeholders and local communities in the management of protected areas should also be strengthened. Protected areas provide opportunities for improving natural resource management, income and employment for local communities, linking biodiversity and social development.

Some countries have recently enacted new legislation on protected areas that strengthen the involvement of relevant stakeholders in their management. For instance, Algeria adopted new legislation on protected areas in February 2011. The new Act has established a national Commission on Protected Areas, which brings together representatives of all the sectors concerned, experts and representatives of NGOs and which provides advice and opinion on new desig- nations.

In Morocco, evaluations of the protected areas network were carried out in 2008 and 2010, which provided relevant recommendations to improve the management of protected areas. In 2013, an analysis of the Master Plan of Pro- tected Areas towards 2020 (HCEFLCD, 2013)8 provided strategic guidelines

(8) Cadrage à l’horizon 2020 du Plan Directeur des Aires Protégées au Morocco (HCEFLCD & GIZ, 2013)

15 NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 · IUCN for the development of a coherent and representative network, as currently it does not fully represent all habitats and ecosystems present in the country. The majority of the national parks is located in forest and mountain areas. Wetlands and Saharan ecosystems are not well covered and there is a lack of protected areas on the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts. Moreover, a significant number of sites are isolated being the distance between them is too big to allow their ecological connectivity.

Tunisia also carried out an analysis of the management effectiveness and ecological representativeness of its protected areas network in 2010, which provided guidelines and recommendations to improve the situation.

In Egypt, the main terrestrial biodiversity hotspots (St. Katherine, Elba, wetlands and western Mediterranean coastal desert) and the most important marine biodiversity hotspot (i.e. Red Sea coral reefs) are fairly covered by the existing protected areas and the distribution of most of the endemic taxa are included in these areas.

IUCN · NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 16 Ichkeul © IUCN/Irene Morell

The designation of marine protected areas has also experienced some progress in the last decades. Egypt is working towards a strategy for achieving a comprehensive and representative network of marine conservation areas. Tunisia expects to increase considerably the designation of marine protected areas after the promulgation of the corresponding legislation in 2009.

A recent project supported by IUCN in Morocco has led to the creation of 3 Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) on Moroccan coasts with the involvement of local fishermen. The originality of the project lies in fact in the involvement of fishermen, who are the founders of the three and are also in charge of deciding which biding regulations will apply within these areas, such as the fishing gears that will be prohibited and the marine species for which fishing will be regulated.

Some other interesting experiences have been developed regarding the involvement of local communities and stakeholders in the management and conservation of protected areas. For instance, in Egypt local communities ac- tively participate in the medicinal plants project in St. Katherine protected area through partnership arrangements.

17 NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 · IUCN Tunisia is currently exploring the possibilities for implementing effective management of protected areas through land stewardship involving NGOs and other relevant stakeholders.

Species assessments, protection and recovery

Species diversity is in decline and continues to be threatened by habitat de- struction, unsustainable use of natural resources, pollution, spread of invasive species and other particular threats. Conservation status assessments are not complete as only some taxonomic groups or species have been assessed in the North African countries. On the other hand, the rate of loss of genetic diversity is poorly known and exerted efforts are still limited. Nevertheless, some important efforts to improve knowledge have been recently undertaken.

In Tunisia, for instance, a first Red List has been identified under a study conducted in 2010 (National Register of Wild Species, REIGNS) supported by the IUCN, which includes a first set of 213 terrestrial animal and plant species.

In Egypt, 364 species of the over 22,000 species described in the country had been assessed by the end of 2013, 41% (152 species) being endangered. In Morocco, about a half of the bird species is endangered.

Furthermore, species conservation strategies and recovery programmes have been prepared and are being implemented since recent years. In Tuni- sia, for instance, recovery programmes are ongoing with the support of IUCN for certain species like the Houbara bustard Chlamydotis undulata) the Barba- ry sheep (Ammotragus lervia), the Dorcas gazelle (Gazella dorcas), the scimitar oryx (Oryx dammah) and the Addax (Addax nasomaculatus), including the reintroduction of some species in national parks.

Action plans for the conservation of threatened species are also implemented in Morocco, as for Macaca sylvanus, the Great bustard (Otios tarda), the Bald ibis (Geronticus eremita) and the Cuviers’s gazelle (Gazella cuvieri). In addition to the reintroduction programme of Addax, Scimitar-horned Oryx, Mhorr Gazelle and North African Ostrich into pre-Saharan reserves.

Captive breeding for several endangered species has been successfully carried out in Egypt, as for the scimitar oryx (Oryx dammah), the Arabian oryx (Oryx leucoryx), the Caracal (Felis caracal), the Dorcas gazelle (Gazella dorcas), the Crested porcupine (Hystrix cristata) and wild turtles (Testudo kleinmanni)

Efforts have also been undertaken in Egypt to recover some endemic flora species in their natural habitats and protect them from extinction. These involved the cultivation of some plant species in St. Katherine protected area, including Arfeja (Annarhinum pubscens), Zayteia (Septemcrenata nepeta), Alloseeg (Sailne shimperiana), Alghasah (Ballota kaiseri) and St. Katherine Thyme (Ori- ganum syriacum) and fenced areas to protect them from random grazing and other threats, as well as the reproduction of Nabq plant (Zizyphus spina–Chris- ti) known as the apple of the desert in Nabq PA, among other actions.

IUCN · NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 18 Efforts have also been undertaken in Egypt to recover some endemic flora species in their natural habitats and protect them from extinction.

Among the main threats to species conservation, wildlife utilization is in general unregulated in the North African countries and excessive hunting is endan- gering a number of wild animals as well as several species of resident and migratory birds. Major exploited groups include mammals for wild meat and recreational hunting, birds for food and the pet trade, and amphibians for traditional medicine and food. Uncontrolled plant collection is also threatened some species of medicinal plants.

Despite the current stringent regulations, illegal hunting continues to pose a serious threat to the maintenance of certain species such as gazelles, some birds or small carnivores such as the Libyan Striped Weasel (Ictonyx libycus). Other species as some snails, chameleons, turtles, scorpions and snakes undergo uncontrolled capture and taking threatening their populations (e.g. in Tunisia).

Invasive species continue to be a major threat to all types of ecosystems and species. Currently available information about invasive species is still insufficient or is not readily available. Invasive species pose a major threat to marine ecosystems. The Mediterranean is home to several entries, particularly from the Red Sea, but also from the Atlantic. There are several introduced species, some of which are destabilizing the balance of marine ecosystems. For example, the white shrimp (Metapenaeus monoceros) would have appeared in the Gulf of Gabes (Tunisia) by 1994 and entered into competition with the local prawn (Penaeus kerathurus). Libinia dubia native crab of the American coast, has been reported in some areas off the Tunisian coast. Species introductions also affected marine plants. Caulerpa taxifolia, observed on the French coast since 1984, has also been reported in North African coastal areas.

Efforts to control and eradicate existing invasive species and to prevent the introduction of new ones still limited in spite of the fact that invasive species represent a real threat to ecosystems, to economy and to human health.

In Algeria, a recent project for the detection of Invasive Alien Species (IAS) will centralize and establish a list of invasive species and detect their introduction, as well as monitoring and reporting of the impacts on biodiversity and create a national network for early detection of IAS.

Combating invasive species is a challenge taking into account the countries’ current potential in terms of human, financial and technical resources, and requires participation of all involved agencies.

19 NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 · IUCN Conservation and recovery of ecosystems

Freshwater ecosystems (rivers, lakes and wetlands) often represent biodiversity hotspots which are threatened by multiple pressures. Wetlands are some of the most important habitats in North Africa in terms of biodiversity, supporting both the greatest diversity and density of bird species, but are subject to a variety of human induced threats leading to their degradation, which include drainage for their conversion into agricultural land and human settlements, water withdrawal for irrigation, building of infrastructures (highways, etc.), coastal erosion, invasive species, water pollution and overfishing. River systems have also been degraded drastically during the past 50 years, being significantly affected by water withdrawals and the construction of dams.

The future of these areas must be a key concern and the solution to their problems can only be tackled with a multi-sector approach that should involve in particular local authorities, water sector institutions and the civil society.

Some relevant efforts are undertaken in North African countries, as the designation of wetlands of international importance under the Ramsar convention in all the countries (see Table 2), the elaboration of the Strategy for the Conserva- tion of wetlands in Morocco and the national water strategy.

IUCN · NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 20 Table 2. Ramsar sites and other wetland protected areas in North African countries

COUNTRY Number of Ramsar sites and other wetland protected areas Algeria 50 Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar sites) Egypt 4 Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar sites) Libya 2 Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar sites) Morocco 24 Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar sites) 41 Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar sites) Tunisia 12 Wetland area of National Importance

Source : Base de données mondiale des aires protégées (WDPA). http://www.protectedplanet.net/

Coastal and marine ecosystems harbour a wide diversity of habitats, as sea grasses, coral reefs, mangroves, marshlands, costal dunes, etc. These habitats suffer from strong anthropogenic pressures and threats including unregulated tourism, sand extraction on the coast for building, unsustainable fishing practices and coastal pollution. Trawling and overfishing are responsible for the degradation of important marine ecosystems. This is illustrated, for instance in Tunisia, by red coral stocks decrease from 25 tonnes in 1980 to less than 1 ton currently, or by the substantial decline in populations of some fish such as groupers, the alose in Morocco and the brown trout (salmo trutta fario).

The coastline is even more exposed to the risk of biodiversity loss due to human pressure. At present, a significant percentage of human population in North African countries live in coastal areas, which are also visited annually by millions of tourists. For instance, around 90% of the population in Algeria lives in coastal regions that only represent 10% of the national surface area. In addition, a high proportion of the industrial activity occurs in the coastal zone. Coastal habitats have thus come under pressure from many forms of development including tourism, urban infrastructure and port facilities. The countries have adopted the strategy of Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM).

Some relevant projects have been carried out as the MEDINA Project: “Marine Ecosystem Dynamics and Indicators for North Africa”, supported by the Euro- pean Commission, which will help to develop long-term monitoring programs for the protection of coastal areas in North African countries.

Other relevant programmes and strategies are being implemented in Morocco, as the he National Strategy for Integrated Management of Coastal areas, and the Strategy for the development of marine protected areas for fishing purposes.

The MedPAN South Project (2008-2012) has implemented actions in Algeria, Libya and Tunisia to build capacity for the establishment of new Marine Pro- tected Areas (MPAs) and to improve management of existing ones.

21 NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 · IUCN In Algeria, the recovery of dune habitats was carried out in a project started in 2011 with the support and assistance of IUCN-Med. A catalogue of habitats and ecosystems of Algerian islands was also developed.

Drylands, steppe and arid areas hold valuable and fragile ecosystems, such as the Alfa grassland (Stipa tenacissima), which is experiencing a drastic reduction in its distribution area in North Africa. The main threats to biodiversity in arid areas are habitat loss and land degradation due to overgrazing and to grassland conversion to accommodate seasonal agriculture. Overgrazing especially in the steppe regions in Algeria has removed many plant species including the Alfa, an important economic resource exportable once. A new threat is caused by gas and shale oil exploitation projects that could pollute soil and underlying aquifers.

IUCN · NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 22 © IUCN/Irene Morell

Some integrated projects which tackle both desertification and biodiversity conservation started in recent years in southern Tunisia including the project of sustainable management of the oasis ecosystems. The actions were accompanied by legal measures such as the enactment of a law on the protection of the oasis ecosystem and the genetic diversity of date palm (more than 250 local varieties). A study has also been carried out in Tunisia to estimate economic value of Alfa grassland.

A Strategy for the development and management of oases is being implemented in Morocco and several programmes for the conservation of oases are carried out in the framework of the national Rural Development Strategy, as the Programmes for the oases of the South, Tafilalet, Draa and Maider.

23 NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 · IUCN Mountain ecosystems host a rich biodiversity with a large number of rare, threatened and endemic species. The loss of biodiversity in mountain areas is attributed to human activities, such as mining, overgrazing, hunting, logging, species harvesting, urban development and introduction of invasive alien species. Moreover, mountain ecosystems are among the most threatened by climate change in the Mediterranean and are also subject to risk of catastrophic events, including mainly fires, and sometimes storms and flooding.

In Morocco, several programmes and projects implemented in the framework of Rural development strategies provide opportunities to address the preservation of biodiversity in mountain areas, such as the Programmes for sustainable development of the High Atlas, and of the Rif mountain areas of Bouhachem, Tetouan, Larache, Chefchaouène, Middle Atlas, Khenifra, Boulemane and Azi- lal.

Forests in North Africa face several threats including overgrazing, overexploitation of resources, increase in forest fires and deforestation to convert land to other uses (agriculture, urban developments). Deforestation has had a serious impact in some countries. For instance, in Algeria between 1984 and 2003 the dense forests lost nearly a quarter of their original size (-22%). In Morocco, the Cedar and the Coak Oak forests as well as the Argania trees are highly coveted by locals for the value of the timber and its products (the third of the area has been lost since the Moroccan independence in 1956). In Tunisia forests suffer from overgrazing and overexploitation of resources. Furthermore, and particularly since the revolution of 14 January 2011, some illegal buildings have appeared in forest areas. In order to improve management of forest areas and preserve their wealth, a forest and pastoral development strategy was developed in Tunisia (2014) and measures for the integrated management of forests are being implemented.

Climate events combine with human pressure and weaken some forest stands that show increasing signs of decline. In Morocco, bioclimatic analyses in the Middle Atlas have shown an increasing trend in temperatures and significant decreased rainfall accompanied by a downward trend in snow cover in the last decades. A dendrochronological study associated with this analysis high- lighted a loss of tree growth by 30%. These changes have weakened the cedar forests, which become more susceptible to diseases and pathogens and cause forest dieback more or less intense on several stands. Acacia stands in the south undergo a strong pressure due to the nomadic people who use them as a cooking fuel.

A forest regeneration programme is being implemented in Morocco since 1990 with a with a completion period of 30 years.

Agricultural habitats have also experienced degradation in terms of biodiversity owing to changes and intensification of agricultural practices. Pollution from agriculture causes soil deterioration that leads to the degradation of critical habitats and species loss. Excessive use and misapplication of pesticides causes loss of rare species including those that act as pollinators and natural

IUCN · NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 24 Resistant and adapted varieties to climate aridity are lost to the benefit of selected but fragile varieties that consume a lot of water. biological control agents. It also has a significant impact on freshwater, coastal and marine ecosystems in all the countries. On the other hand, Agricultural land continues to be lost to human settlements. Resistant and adapted varieties to climate aridity are lost to the benefit of selected but fragile varieties that consume a lot of water.

Pasture land is particularly under threat of degradation mainly due to overgrazing that results from an increase in livestock density coupled with a decrease in pasture and grazing areas. For instance, Tunisia has the highest livestock density in North Africa, with over 40 sheep/km2. In Algeria, there are about 38 million sheep.

The intensification of crop and livestock production, along with the abandon- ment of rural areas, has caused the loss of genetic diversity. The continued loss in genetic diversity of crops and livestock may have serious implications on food security and other provisioning services. A good example of the loss of genetic diversity is illustrated by the great loss of cotton varieties in Egypt since the 1950s and the cereal in Morocco.

Some efforts are being undertaken in the North African countries to combat the loss of this agricultural genetic diversity as the implementation of the Strat- egy for the conservation and enhancement of genetic resources of cultivated plants and the National Strategy for Development of aromatic and medicinal plants in Morocco.

In Tunisia, the conservation of agro-biodiversity is addressed in the network of protected areas and through the National Genes Bank. Conservation measures are accompanied by in situ activities with the participation of farmers in different areas of the country, in particular for the preservation of local varieties of durum wheat, for which Tunisia is a secondary centre of diversity. The enactment of legislation for the protection of genetic resources of date palm and oasis ecosystems is also an example of the efforts undertaken in Tunisia for the conservation of agro-diversity.

Addressing climate change and desertification

Climate change is likely to exacerbate many of the risks associated with above mentioned stressors and reducing the choices open to individuals and policy makers. Climate change, drought events, desertification and erosion consti- tute a threat to ecosystems in all North African countries. Predictive models indicate a temperature increase of about 1 to 2.8° C and a decrease in rainfall of up to 104mm/year by 2050. Global warming is aggravating certain mechanisms such as fragmentation, degradation and loss of habitat, or the spread

25 NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 · IUCN of invasive alien species, which already represent a strong threat to the maintenance of well-functioning ecosystems. Climate change thus threatens many ecosystems and species of flora and fauna in North Africa.

Some effects are already being noticed from climate change and especially the rise in temperature, the reduction of rainfalls and extreme events (fires, storms, and heat waves). For instance, migration of marine species is being detected in Tunisia, as indicated by the proliferation of thermophilic species that were formerly exclusive of the Gulf of Gabes (southern Tunisia) in the northern coasts of the country.

IUCN · NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 26 Traditional North Africa crafts © IUCN

Given the vulnerability of Tunisia to climate change, the country has accorded priority attention to the prevention of global warming impacts on ecosystems, natural resources, human health, economic activities and development in general. A number of studies have been developed to improve knowledge, including vulnerability studies of the Alfa ecosystem in central Tunisia, of pastureland in the South and of Oak cork forests in the North of the country.

In Morocco, changes in forest species ranges, in particular the distribution of insects and fungi, have already been noticed under the influence of global warming over last 30 years. The modification of distribution areas of

27 NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 · IUCN Desertification, exacerbated by climate change, is also one of the major challenges for biodiversity conservation as it contributes to the loss and degradation of many habitats and ecosystems in North Africa. herbaceous species of mountain ranges are also recognized. The caterpillar Thaumetopoea pityocampa is considered a new threat to the relict forests of Mediterranean pines subject to climate change. Major shifts in species phe- nology are also expected; for example an increase of 1° C in average air temperature would cause an earlier pollination date of palm trees in the oases and other fruit trees.

National strategies and responses to address climate change effects have been prepared in the North African countries. A Climate Change Adaptation Programme has been recently started in Morocco with the support of the GIZ, which aims to increase capacities and develop adaptation approaches to af- ford the risks caused by climate change.

Desertification, exacerbated by climate change, is also one of the major challenges for biodiversity conservation as it contributes to the loss and degradation of many habitats and ecosystems in North Africa. In Morocco, for instance it potentially concerns 93% of the national territory in arid climate where land loses its capacity for regeneration. Water erosion concerns more than 10 million hectares, while wind erosion affects all coastal areas, the southern and eastern regions of Morocco. National action Programmes to combat desertification are in place in the North African countries.

Programmes to combat desertification should be strengthened, including support and enhancement of projects against desert progression in the circum-Sa- haran region (such as the Green Dam project in Algeria), which aim to reforest large areas in order to build a green belt that will act as a barrier against desertification and desert encroachment.

IUCN · NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 28 Assessing and preserving ecosystems services

The loss of biodiversity will ultimately impact the ecosystems functions and their ability to deliver essential goods and services. As a result, serious social, economic, cultural and ecological implications are expected. The continuing decline of biodiversity puts these crucial ecosystem services at stake, ultimately affecting the well-being of human populations. The role of biodiversity in sup- plying ecosystem goods and services is gaining recognition among decision makers and social actors.

However, systematic quantitative assessments are needed to determine how changes in biodiversity would impact the provision of ecosystem services, or how the production of ecosystem services has impacted on biodiversity.

Some relevant studies have been recently carried out in the countries for the valuation of ecosystems services. For example, in Morocco, a study on the economic valuation of biodiversity and ecosystem services and the impact of climate change on these services has been conducted in the National Park Tazekka. The office of the Mediterranean programme of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and the Agency of the river basin of Sebou carried out a study on the “Development of approaches to payment for ecosystem services (PES) for the conservation of lakes in the Middle Atlas in Morocco”.

In Tunisia, two studies have been conducted to determine the monetary value of Alfa grasslands (Stipa tenacissima) and for the economic valuation of goods and services of provided by the Tunisian forests. More recently in 2016, an assessment of the economic values of ecosystem services in Ichkeul National Park in Tunisia has been developed in the framework of a project funded by the Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund.

29 NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 · IUCN 3.2 MAIN NEEDS AND CHALLENGES TO ADDRESS IN THE NORTH-AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2010

Despite a significant increase in conservation efforts and some remarkable results (as clearly indicated by the expansion of the PA network and the implementation of biodiversity focused projects in some countries), further efforts are required to strengthen the legal and institutional frameworks for biodiversity conservation, increase capacities for implementing the national biodiversity agendas in general, and raising public awareness at all levels.

Based on recommendations from the interim evaluation of the Programme 2013-20169 and from the Forum held in El Cairo in October 2015, the following main needs can be identified:

• Improve, share and transfer knowledge and technologies relating to biodiversity, using appropriate tools and developing new tools. Status assessments and consistent reporting should be improved in North African countries, where there is a strong need for baseline data. Initiatives that involve Mediterranean countries (Southern and Northern shores) should be increased to boost regional cooperation and technology transfer. The monitoring and assessment of biodiversity is not carried out systemati- cally and suffers from insufficient data and relevant indicators. The impact of conservation interventions on the risk of ecosystem loss or degradation, extinction of species and genetic diversity cannot be assessed due to the lack of monitoring programmes over a certain period of time. Comprehen- sive systems, such as national biodiversity observatories would help to improve knowledge and awareness about biodiversity status and trends in North African countries. Expert groups and networks would be useful to define, compile and consolidate the most relevant information.

• Increase awareness and understanding of critical issues for biodiversity conservation at all levels (from government to people) and in all economic sectors, to support decision making. Critical issues include biodiversity values and ecosystems services, the consequences of biodiversity loss for people, critical pressures and threats, effects of climate change, sustainability, food challenges, etc. Communication activities should be well targeted and use appropriate language to effectively reach the target public, including policy makers, managers, local stakeholders, the private sector and civil society, including young people and women. Effective tools should be used, including reporting tools, social media and direct communication. Efforts should be made to reach business and development sectors and to strengthen linkages between conservation and socio-economic activities.

(9) The Mid-term evaluation of the North Africa Programme 2013-2016 was carried out in 2015 by external independent consultants under a contract with IUCN-Med and in consultation with all IUCN Members and relevant partners in North Africa.

IUCN · NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 30 • Enhance conservation of important biodiversity areas and threatened species, providing support and assistance to the countries to develop a coherent network of conservation areas, for the elaboration of conservation strategies for threatened species and implementation of priority measures. Updates of lists of protected species have yet to be completed and be subject to a rigorous methodology for conservation status assessment. They must also be extended to marine species. Regulatory measures against offenders should also be enforced and amended in some cases.

• Reduce key pressures and threats on vulnerable ecosystems and promote conservation and sustainable management of resources in ecosystems with particular importance in the region, including especially marine and coastal areas, but also arid areas, oasis, wetlands and freshwater habitats, forests and mountain. Assessing impacts and integrating biodiversity values into spatial planning and development of economic activities is needed in order to preserve nature and prevent the loss of biodiversity and the decline of nature-derived benefits. Marine conservation should be, as up to now, an important axis of the programme, considering the need to conserving the high seas and the areas recently listed as EB- SAs (Ecologically or Biologically Significant Marine Areas).

• Improve governance and capacities for nature conservation. Capacity building to improve governance should cover many different aspects (legal, institutional, financial, public participation) and involve all relevant partners: governments, local authorities, private sectors, civil society, women, young people, etc. Assessment and research about governance is also needed. Finding sustainable solutions to tackle the biodiversity challenges requires concerted action by all stakeholders, including civil society, which should act in partnership with the public institution.

• Capacity building for biodiversity conservation and sustainable management of natural resources is a major need in many areas and at many different levels, from national agencies to local governments, NGOs and civil society organisations. Training and capacity building should cover the main issues addressed in the programme and also the capacities to develop the actions of the programme. Recent political developments in the region have brought an opening towards greater democracy and civil society participation. The associations are increasing and need to improve their inherent capacities as well as communication and exchange with their counterparts in other countries, especially in the Northern Mediterranean shore. Youth, enthusiasm and motivation of active members in the NA associations are positive factors to be seized through training and coaching to enhance performance and efficiency of civil society in the region.

31 NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 · IUCN • Strengthen the participation of all relevant stakeholders and local communities in the actions that contribute to biodiversity conservation. Promote sustainable use of natural resources that deliver benefits to - lo cal communities and preserve the natural and cultural heritage, the landscapes, etc. Priority should be given to areas that harbour threatened habitats and species, ecosystems that provide essential services for people and vulnerable ecosystems.

• Promote traditional best practice and local knowledge that are part of the cultural heritage in Mediterranean region and which support the conservation of biodiversity and sustainable use of natural resources. Relatively few initiatives have been taken to maintain, protect, document and promote traditional knowledge as it relates to natural resource management.

• Improve the mainstreaming of biodiversity into other sectors. There is still limited evidence of biodiversity concerns being reflected in a - se rious way in the policies, legislation and regulations governing most of the productive sectors in the countries, and it is not reflected in the nations’ development agenda in many significant ways. Poverty alleviation and community development programmes should be used to promote and provide opportunities for improving natural resource management and employment for local communities by linking biodiversity and social development. There is also a need to improve synergy and coordination of actions between the various ministries and government departments for the implementation of effective policies and actions on nature conservation. Harmonization between policies, strategies and national action plans of development is needed. Strengthen action on climate change, including a proper assessment of climate change effects in the Mediterranean region and its consequences for people and biodiversity (e.g. changes in ecosystems, species distribution, invasive alien species spread, food security, desertification, land degradation, etc.). Promote actions to prevent risks and improve adaptation and increase resilience of natural ecosystems and mitigation measures, e.g. implementation of national adaptation strategies, promoting the use of renewable energies (mainly solar energy) in PAs, reforestation, habitats’ restoration, etc., and ensure climate jus- tice10. Nature-based solutions and traditional practices that contribute to better adaptation to climate change could be tested through pilot projects to demonstrate their effectiveness.

• Other global challenges should also be addressed, including food security (e.g. conserving agriculture and livestock varieties that are best adapted to the conditions of African countries) and development (e.g. through promoting activities that generate income for local populations). Actions to improve knowledge, monitoring, control and management of Invasive Alien Species should also be supported and strengthened.

(10) I.e. the recognition that the countries of the North and South have “common but differ- entiated responsibilities” for climate change, and that their “respective capabilities” to deal are unequal.

IUCN · NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 32 • Finally, one of the major factors affecting implementation of national biodiversity strategies and conservation actions include the lack of financial and human resources. The programme shall address the mobilisation of resources and seize all opportunities for project and programme funding. Co-financing along the lines of sustainable development should be encour- aged and could make an improvement of the funding opportunities for relevant actions aimed at nature conservation and sustainable development.

33 NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 · IUCN 4. THE NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020: CORE AREAS, RESULTS AND APPROACHES

4.1 CORE PROGRAMME AREAS

As all IUCN’s programmes, the North Africa Programme builds on the “One Programme Approach” and is organized into three Programme Areas:

1. Valuing and conserving nature 2. Promoting and Supporting Effective and Equitable Governance of Natural Resources 3. Deploying nature based solutions to address societal challenges including climate change, food security and economic and social development.

Under Valuing and conserving nature, IUCN will develop and use its knowledge on biodiversity, and its associated tools and planning standards, to influence policy and action on the ground. Under Effective and equitable governance of nature’s use, IUCN will consolidate its experience from working with people and institutions, addressing how public and private decisions on nature and ecosystems affect biodiversity and livelihoods. Deploying nature-based solutions to global challenges in climate, food and development expands IUCN’s work on nature’s contribution to tackling problems of sustainable development, particularly in climate change, food security and social and economic development.

These programme areas are essential for biodiversity conservation and for in- fluencing the economic, social and political processes that determine biodiversity loss, ecosystem management, nature-based livelihoods, and rights and responsibilities for nature.

The Programme will seek to contribute to the delivery of the Sustainable De- velopment Goals, the Aichi Targets for biodiversity (Strategic Plan of the CBD 2011-2020) and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. Its expected results and targets are linked to the SDGs targets which they support and to the Aichi targets in the Overview of the programme presented below.

IUCN · NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 34 Figure 1. Contribution of the three programme areas to the delivery of some key SDGs

LIFE 15 ON LAND GENDER 5 EQUALITY ATER LIFE 14 BELOW W 10 REDUCED INEQUALITIES

TER TION A A

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societal challenges

ACTION

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4.2 OVERVIEW OF THE PROGRAMME

The Tables presented below present the substantive elements of the IUCN’s North Africa Programme for the period 2017-2020 in regard of each of the three programme areas. These tables provide a broad overview of the results and the targets set to be achieved by 2020, while more detailed narratives introduc- ing the elements of each programme area and expected results are presented in the next section of the document (see section 4.3).

These tables also show the links between the expected results of this program and those of the IUCN Global Programme, as well as their contribution to the Objectives and Targets for Sustainable Development (according to the document adopted at the Summit on Sustainable Development held on September 25, 2015), and to the targets of the Strategic Plan for biodiversity 2011-2020 of the CBD (Aichi Targets).

This programme also aims to contribute to the decisions of the Paris Agree- ment on Climate Change11, mainly through the interventions included in the Programme Area 3.

(11) http://unfccc.int/resource/docs/2015/cop21/eng/l09r01.pdf

35 NORTH AFRICA PROGRAMME 2017-2020 · IUCN PROGRAMME AREA 1: Valuing and conserving nature

Result 1.1: Knowledge on biodiversity values, status and trends is improved, effectively shared and communicated to inform policies and decision-making on nature conservation in North African countries