In line with the decision of the 16th Meeting of the ROPME Ordinary Ministerial Council (November 2013) to establish a long-term strategy and action plan, the ROPME Secretariat has developed the ROPME Strategic Directions 2026–2030. This five-year framework aligns with national, regional, and global strategies, focusing on strategic goals, priorities, and programs aimed at protecting and conserving the ROPME Sea Area (RSA). The new Strategic Directions were prepared through an extensive review of international, regional, and national policy documents, conventions, protocols, and ROPME research, and are consistent with UNEP’s Regional Seas Strategic Directions.
As part of the preparation process, ROPME conducted eight online presentations to representatives from its Member States, led by H.E. Dr. Mohammad Al Ahmad, ROPME Executive Secretary. These sessions introduced the history, methodology, goals, programs, priority areas, and expected impacts of the Strategic Directions, and facilitated in-depth discussions with each Member State.
The “ROPME Strategic Directions 2026–2030 Workshop” was held at ROPME Headquarters in Kuwait from 11 to 13 February 2025. The workshop brought together 46 participants, both in person and online, from ROPME Member States and regional and international organizations such as the GCC, IOC-UNESCO, IUCN, UN-Habitat, RECOFI, and RECSO.
The event provided a platform to present and elaborate on the new Strategic Directions, share national and regional expertise, and explore the roles of ROPME Member States and environmental stakeholders in their implementation. Participants worked towards building a common understanding and consensus on the structure, goals, programs, and priority areas, and discussed the next steps for further development and adoption.
