The Sanctuary Pelagos, a unique international marine protected area dedicated to safeguarding Mediterranean marine mammals, is undergoing its periodic review for the renewal of its status as a Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Importance (ASPIM). The review process, which began on 14th January 2025 in Monaco, will culminate in a decision at the COP24 of the Barcelona Convention in December 2025.
Experts, supported by national focal points from the Regional Activity Centre for Specially Protected Areas (RAC/SPA) of the Barcelona Convention, convened at the headquarters of the Pelagos Agreement to assess progress made since the last evaluation in 2019. Their findings will be presented during the 17th meeting of ASP/DB focal points in May 2025, providing a comprehensive overview of the sanctuary’s achievements and areas requiring attention.
Established in 2001 and jointly managed by Monaco, France, and Italy, the Sanctuary Pelagos spans the Mediterranean’s unique marine ecosystem. It is the sole international transboundary area dedicated to marine mammal protection. The sanctuary hosts eight cetacean species, including dolphins and whales, and offers a habitat for the monk seal. Its extraordinary biodiversity is supported by conservation efforts aimed at mitigating human impact on marine species and habitats.
Recognized as an ASPIM under the United Nations Environment Programme’s Barcelona Convention, the sanctuary has also been designated as a Particularly Sensitive Sea Area (PSSA) alongside Spain’s Cetacean Corridor. Such designations highlight its ecological significance and underscore the importance of continued international cooperation to ensure the effective preservation of marine biodiversity.
The renewal of the ASPIM status, conducted every six years, reflects a commitment to enhancing marine conservation efforts across Mediterranean waters. With a decision pending in December, all eyes will be on Egypt, where COP24 will determine the sanctuary’s future status and its ongoing role in protecting marine mammals.
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Photo credit: Salmen Bejaoui, Unsplash