© Paul Gilliland
On June 12-13, 2024, a training course titled "Marine Spatial Planning in Türkiye: From Theory to Practice" was organized in Ankara, with the support of the Turkish Ministry of Environment, Urbanization, and Climate Change. This event was tailored specifically for national and regional institutions, aiming to provide cutting-edge methodologies and the latest updates on Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) implementation in the Mediterranean region.
The training was attended by 37 representatives from 20 different national and regional institutions. Participants received essential information on various aspects of MSP, including governance, funding opportunities, data management, the ecosystem approach, land-sea interactions, and climate change. The course also showcased a wide range of experiences from Bulgaria, Italy, Montenegro, Malta, and Slovenia.
A key highlight of the training was the MSP simulation exercise through the MSP Challenge. This exercise generated significant interest as it demonstrated the preparation of an ecosystem-based maritime spatial plan while addressing conflicting interests and communication challenges.
Overall, the training was deemed productive, effectively addressing the primary needs and national interests for the future development of MSP in Türkiye. It also served as a strong foundation for the upcoming CAMP Türkiye project, which will specifically address Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) and MSP.
