The Bern Convention
The Bern Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats was opened for signature in 1979, and was ratified by the United Kingdom in 1982.
Its principal aims are:
- to ensure conservation and protection of all wild plants and animal species,
- to increase cooperation between States in these areas, and
- to afford special protection to the most vulnerable or threatened species (including migratory species).
The Convention thus protects over 500 wild plant species and more than 1000 wild animal species. It is open - that is not limited to Europe - and is now in force in 40 member states. It is the inspiration for the EC Habitats and Wild Birds Directives and had a direct influence on the UK's main conservation legislation, the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended). The UK continues to play an active role in the Convention, and in particular its current work in support of wider biodiversity initiatives.
Detailed information on the activities and main texts of the Convention can be found on the Council of Europe website.
Page last modified: 12 January 2000