The Thematic Ad-Hoc Meeting of the Mediterranean Commission on Sustainable Development (MCSD) took place in Istanbul, Türkiye, on 12–13 February 2025, kindly hosted by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Istanbul Centre, with the generous support of France through a voluntary contribution.
In line with the 2024–2025 UNEP/MAP Programme of Work and Budget, as adopted by COP23, the meeting aimed to maximize inclusion and active contributions to the update process of the Mediterranean Strategy for Sustainable Development (MSSD).
It is essential that the revised MSSD remains fully aligned with global and regional commitments and frameworks, reinforcing its role as a key cooperation platform for sustainable development in the Mediterranean. This may elevate its strategic objectives on political agendas, strengthen cooperation, increase impact, and attract funding for sustainable development in the region. The update process will place greater emphasis on addressing climate change risks and further strengthen the implementation of MSP in the region by streamlining policy efforts towards achieving GES and supporting the transition to a sustainable Blue Economy.
As part of the meeting, PAP/RAC also presented an important new flagship initiative—advocating for Mediterranean Coast Day to be officially recognized as an international UN Day—further reinforcing the region’s commitment to coastal sustainability.
The outcomes of the meeting reaffirmed the collective commitment of Mediterranean stakeholders to advancing sustainable development through strengthened cooperation, policy alignment, and concrete action, ensuring a resilient and thriving future for the region.
