Indo-Burma Ramsar Regional Initiative (IBRRI)

The Indo-Burma Ramsar Regional Initiative (IBRRI) is a collaborative effort aimed at conserving and restoring wetlands in the Indo-Burma region. It is jointly developed by the Ramsar National Focal Points (NFPs) of Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, and Viet Nam, with support from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Asia Regional Office. The initiative plays a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the Ramsar Convention’s Strategic Plan, ensuring sustainable management of wetland ecosystems across borders.

At the recently concluded Ramsar COP15, a side event was held to highlight the progress of the Indo-Burma Ramsar Regional Initiative. During this event, the IBRRI officially launched its Strategic Plan 2025–2030, which provides a transboundary framework to halt and reverse wetland loss in the member states.

About Indo-Burma Ramsar Regional Initiative

Development and Support

• Jointly Developed By: Ramsar National Focal Points of Cambodia, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand, and Viet Nam.
• Supported By: IUCN’s BRIDGE Project (Building River Dialogue and Governance).
• Objective: To ensure coordinated implementation of the Ramsar Convention’s Strategic Plan.

Governance Structure

To ensure oversight, transparency, and inclusivity, the IBRRI has a multi-level governance system,

• Steering Committee: Includes representatives from Ramsar Administrative Authorities of the five member countries.
• Secretariat: Hosted by the IUCN Asia Regional Office in Bangkok, Thailand.
• Stakeholder Committee: Provides technical and strategic guidance, serving as a platform for inclusive, multi-stakeholder engagement in IBRRI activities.

Strategic Plan 2025–2030

• The Strategic Plan 2025–2030 sets a clear roadmap for regional cooperation.
• Aim: To halt and reverse the loss of wetlands in Indo-Burma.
• Approach: Collaborative and transboundary, ensuring member countries work together on wetland restoration, conservation, and sustainable use.

Focus Areas

• Protecting Ramsar Sites and other wetlands of international importance.
• Enhancing community participation and stakeholder engagement.
• Strengthening science-based policies for wetland management.
• Promoting climate resilience through wetlands conservation.

Importance of IBRRI

• Promotes unity among Indo-Burma countries for wetland conservation.
• Ensures survival of critical wetland-dependent species.
• Wetlands act as carbon sinks and buffers against floods.
• upports millions dependent on wetlands for fishing, farming, and eco-tourism.