A Continental Dataset Analysis on Strategy Implementation from the COP9 Ramsar National Reports

This study analyzed the implementation of 20 strategic areas reported by Contracting Parties in the national reports submitted to the 9th Meeting of the Conference of the Contracting Parties (COP9) to the Ramsar Convention. Using reconstructed datasets based on the official reporting format, achievement rates were calculated for each strategy and compared across six continents. The results revealed clear variation in performance both between strategic areas and among continents. Governance- and policy-related strategies, such as wetland inventory and assessment, policy and legislation, and designation of Ramsar Sites, showed relatively higher implementation levels in Europe and North America. In contrast, strategies related to restoration, incentives, financing, and financial contributions to the Convention showed lower levels in several regions, particularly Oceania and parts of Africa. These findings highlight structural differences in institutional capacity, policy environments, and resource availability across regions. The results of this study provide a quantitative basis for assessing the status of global wetland management at the time of COP9 and offer useful reference points for understanding long-term trends in Ramsar Convention implementation and setting priorities for future international cooperation.