Details
EUROPARC WEBINAR – Transboundary Nature Conservation
- 08.10.2024
- 16:30 – 18:00 CEST
- Registration is free, but required here.
Transboundary Nature Conservation: Engaging Decision-Makers, Communities, and Media in a United Approach
- The Role of Media: How the media can influence public perception, raise awareness, and shape policy on transboundary conservation.
- Decision-Maker Engagement: Exploring how policymakers and international organisations like the European Commission and AEBR work to foster cooperation and overcome obstacles in cross-border conservation.
- Community Involvement: Practical strategies for ensuring that local communities are engaged and active participants in protecting shared natural resources.
Programme:
Opening Remarks
Nella Sergejeva, EUROPARC Transboundary Programme Coordinator
The Role of Decision-Making in Cross-Border Conservation and Policy Implementation
Simona Pohlová, DG REGIO, European Commission
Transboundary Cooperation in the Balkans: Overcoming Challenges and Building Success
Ana Nikolov, Head of AEBR Balkans Office
The Role of Media in Shaping Transboundary Conservation Efforts
James Fahn, Executive Director, Earth Journalism Network
Transboundary Cooperation between Šumava National Park and Bavarian Forest National Park: Community Involvement and Engagement
Martin Starý, Šumava National Park
Q&A Session
Nella Sergejeva, EUROPARC Transboundary Programme Coordinator
Closing Remarks and Next Steps
Nella Sergejeva, EUROPARC Transboundary Programme Coordinator
Get to know the speakers
Simona Pohlová, DG Regio, European Commission
Simona Pohlová is a key figure at the European Commission’s DG REGIO, leading the implementation of cross-border cooperation programmes and EU Pre-Accession (IPA) funds. With extensive experience in managing Interreg programmes and regional policy for countries like Turkey and the Western Balkans, she offers deep expertise in EU decision-making and funding mechanisms. Her insights will shed light on how policy supports transboundary nature conservation efforts, drawing from her coordination of major initiatives like the European Week of Regions and Cities.
Ana Nikolov, Head of AEBR Balkans Office
As the Head of the AEBR Balkans office and Executive Director of the Institute for International and Cross-Border Cooperation, Ana Nikolov brings over a decade of experience in fostering cross-border collaborations in the Balkans. She has been instrumental in coordinating projects that enhance regional cooperation and is also part of a pool of experts for multilevel governance at the Council of Europe’s Centre of Expertise for Good Governance. With her extensive background in planning, tourism, and peace development initiatives, Ana will provide key insights into transboundary cooperation in the Balkans.
James Fahn, Executive Director, Earth Journalism Network
James Fahn is the Global Director of Internews’ Environmental Programmes and Executive Director of the Earth Journalism Network, a global community of over 25,000 reporters focused on environmental issues. With extensive experience as a journalist in Asia, James has reported on environmental, climate, and science topics, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. He is also a lecturer at UC Berkeley’s Graduate School of Journalism, teaching international environmental reporting. His book, A Land on Fire, reflects his investigative work in Southeast Asia, and he has contributed to renowned publications like The New York Times, Scientific American, and The Economist.
Martin Starý, Head of Nature Conservation Department, Šumava National Park
Martin Starý has been a passionate leader in nature conservation at Šumava National Park since 2009, currently serving as Head of the Nature Conservation Department. Growing up in Český Krumlov, his deep connection to the region’s unique ecosystems has driven his work in Czech-German-Austrian cross-border cooperation. Martin’s innovative efforts continue to shape the future of conservation in this remarkable area.