We focus on strengthening coastal sustainability and resilience across the Mediterranean through integrated, long-term approaches to planning, governance and capacity development
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Through policy and governance support, integrated planning, monitoring, capacity development, and awareness raising, PAP/RAC helps countries respond to evolving coastal pressures and management needs. Together, these actions provide the tools, knowledge, and partnerships needed to support sustainable coastal development across the Mediterranean.
This integrated approach enables experience gained in one context to inform action in others, allowing practical solutions to be shared, adapted, and applied across the Mediterranean and beyond.
Effective coastal management requires clear governance arrangements and coherent policy frameworks. We support countries in applying the ICZM Protocol through coordination mechanisms, policy guidance and governance methods – turning shared principles into practical tools that work across different coastal contexts.
Integrated planning is the key to successful ICZM, enabling timely issue analysis, stakeholder engagement, and the finding of the most promising solutions to a wide range of intertwined environmental challenges. PAP/RAC supports integrated planning processes at national, local, and transboundary levels by developing and implementing national ICZM strategies, marine spatial plans (MSP), and coastal plans.
The Integrated Monitoring and Assessment Programme (IMAP) provides the regional framework for integrated, quantitative assessment of the Mediterranean environment through a set of common indicators.
PAP/RAC leads work on three common indicators related to hydrographic changes, coastline artificialisation and land cover change.
Launched in 1989, CAMPs are country-driven initiatives that translate shared ICZM principles into practical actions across the Mediterranean. Coordinated by PAP/RAC in partnership with national governments, CAMPs support sustainable development and coastal resilience within each country’s legal and administrative framework.
Strategic and environmental assessments strengthen the quality, consistency and sustainability of coastal and marine planning and policy-making. PAP/RAC provides technical guidance and methodological support in developing strategic and environmental impact assessments to ensure the sustainable development of coastal zones.
Capacity building enables institutions and professionals to respond to evolving coastal and marine management challenges.
PAP/RAC supports this through targeted trainings, workshops, consultations and on-the-job learning, tailored to national contexts and regional priorities.
Awareness raising helps build understanding of coastal values, risks and long-term sustainability challenges among decision-makers, stakeholders and the wider public.
PAP/RAC supports awareness raising and stakeholder engagement through outreach activities and regional initiatives such as Mediterranean Coast Day, as well as communication actions linked to country-specific projects.
