Mr. Vasile Bîrsan, AEWA National Focal Point, Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Moldova
The Republic of Moldova is currently in the process of transposing the Birds Directive (Directive 2009/147/EC) and the Habitats Directive (Directive 92/43/EEC), as part of its commitments to biodiversity conservation and alignment with European nature protection standards.
The conservation and effective management of natural areas with high ecological value, such as the "Lower Dniester" Nature Park and the "Lower Prut" Biosphere Reserve, have significantly contributed to the increase in populations of migratory birds, including particularly important species such as the great white pelican (Pelecanus onocrotalus) and the Dalmatian pelican (Pelecanus crispus).
The Republic of Moldova has undertaken a series of concrete measures for the conservation of natural areas with high ecological value, such as the "Lower Dniester" Nature Park and the "Lower Prut" Biosphere Reserve, thus contributing to the protection of biodiversity and, in particular, migratory birds. These measures include, first and foremost, the official designation of these protected areas: the "Lower Dniester" Nature Park was established in 2021, while the "Lower Prut" Biosphere Reserve was recognized in 2018 by UNESCO as part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves, which strengthened their international status and attracted conservation support.
For both protected areas, management plans have been developed and are in the process of being implemented. These plans include clear measures for the conservation of natural habitats, control of invasive species, restoration of degraded wetlands, and strict regulation of economic activities, including the promotion of sustainable ecotourism. At the same time, programs are being carried out to monitor species of community interest, especially migratory birds such as the great white pelican (Pelecanus onocrotalus) and the Dalmatian pelican (Pelecanus crispus).
The Republic of Moldova has also benefited from international support through projects funded by the European Union, the Global Environment Facility (GEF), UNDP, and other organizations, which have supported biodiversity conservation actions, the development of ecological infrastructure, as well as environmental education and public awareness. Another important aspect is cross-border cooperation with Romania and Ukraine, which has enabled the development of joint initiatives for the conservation of ecosystems along the lower courses of the Prut and Dniester rivers, contributing to the maintenance of ecological connectivity along key bird migration corridors.
Moreover, special emphasis has been placed on the involvement of local communities in the conservation process by promoting organic farming practices, sustainable fishing, and the development of ecotourism as sustainable economic alternatives. Environmental education and awareness programs have contributed to raising public awareness of the importance of protecting migratory species and their habitats, thereby strengthening national conservation efforts.
An essential role in this process is also played by AEWA – the Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds, a legally binding international instrument adopted under the framework of the Bonn Convention (CMS), which aims to protect migratory species dependent on wetlands. Globally, AEWA provides a coordinated cooperation framework among states along the birds' migration routes, being vital for the integrated conservation of species throughout their life cycle.
At the national level, the implementation of AEWA measures supports the Republic of Moldova in protecting migratory species, particularly through monitoring, threat reduction, and the conservation of key habitats, in accordance with the principles of sustainable development and the pan-European ecological network.
The Ministry of Environment of the Republic of Moldova is making continuous efforts not only in developing the necessary legislative framework but also in ensuring the effective implementation of conservation measures, with the goal of protecting and restoring national biodiversity, especially migratory bird species.
Last updated on 04 June 2025