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What is Transboundary Parks Programme?
Cooperation between Protected Areas across or adjacent to international borders significantly enhances the conservation of natural and cultural heritage and promotes sustainable regional development. This collaboration fosters international peace and understanding, contributing to a unified Europe.
Recognising the importance of such transboundary work, the EUROPARC Federation established the “Basic Standards for Transboundary Cooperation between European Protected Areas.” These standards provide clear principles and practical activities for Protected Areas aiming for high-quality, long-term cooperation. Launched in September 2003 at the 5th World Park Congress in Durban and endorsed by the IUCN, this innovative system includes a special verification and certification process to help cross-border protected areas improve the management of shared ecosystems, habitats, and species.
The Importance and Impact of Transboundary Cooperation in Protected Areas
Unlock the full potential of your European Protected Area with EUROPARC’s prestigious Transboundary Parks Programme! Our initiative offers a unique certification system designed to foster and enhance transboundary cooperation among European Protected Areas. By joining our programme, you will benefit from:
1. Exclusive EUROPARC Basic Standards for exceptional transfrontier cooperation.
2. Comprehensive Verification Process conducted by expert external verifiers.
3. Formal Certification as a “EUROPARC Transboundary Area,” elevating your area’s status and recognition.
4. Five-Year Renewal Cycleensuring sustained excellence and continuous improvement.
This opportunity is open to all EUROPARC member Protected Areas involved in transfrontier cooperation. Together, the Basic Standards and the verification process provide a robust support system for Protected Areas engaged in transboundary efforts, setting the benchmark for excellence in transboundary cooperation.
Independent verifiers assess the parks, and the Transboundary Steering and Evaluation Committee (STEC) reviews the verifiers’ reports. Based on STEC’s recommendations, the EUROPARC Council makes the final decision on whether a Protected Area will be awarded or re-evaluated for certification.
Join the ranks of leading protected areas and be part of a network dedicated to preserving Europe’s natural heritage. Apply now and transform your protected area into a model of international cooperation!
Why should YOU join the programme?
To answer this question, we invite you to watch the video of Michael Hošek, President of EUROPARC Federation, on the importance of Transboundary Parks Programme below.
Next, with reference to Hamilton et al., 1996, please familiarise yourself with some of the main benefits that the transboundary cooperation will bring to YOU and the Protected Areas you wish to partner with :
- Enhanced Biodiversity Protection: A larger contiguous area better safeguards biodiversity, maintaining viable populations of many fauna species, particularly large carnivores.
- Ecosystem and Bioregional Management: Transboundary cooperation promotes effective ecosystem management for flora and fauna that cross political or administrative boundaries.
- Facilitated Species Reintroduction: Reintroduction or natural re-colonisation of large-range species is more successful through transboundary cooperation.
- Effective Pest and Invasive Species Control: Joint efforts in controlling pest species and alien invasives prevent sources of infection across boundaries, protecting native biodiversity.
- Cost-Effective Conservation Facilities: Shared facilities for rare plant species needing ex situ bank and nursery setups are more economical.
- Enhanced Research Programmes: Joint research eliminates duplication, expands perspectives, standardises methodologies, and shares expensive equipment.
- Improved Wildfire Management: Better surveillance and management of wildfires that cross boundaries through joint efforts.
- Stronger Law Enforcement: Enhanced control over poaching and illegal trade with joint patrols and effective law enforcement in border areas.
- Boosted Nature-Based Tourism: Greater visitor attraction, joint marketing, tour operator training, and coordinated visitor management.
- Collaborative Educational Initiatives: More compelling and cost-effective educational materials and joint interpretation of shared natural or cultural resources.
- Comprehensive Staff Training and Morale: Joint training programmes are cost-effective and benefit from diverse experiences, improving staff morale and reducing isolation.
- Efficient Staff Exchanges: Easier and more effective staff exchanges offer a broader pool of expertise for problem-solving.
- Shared Resources: Economical sharing of expenses for heavy equipment, aircraft rental for patrols, etc.
- Greater Influence with Authorities: Priority actions in transboundary cooperation carry more weight with national authorities.
- Increased International Commitment: Ministries are more likely to honour commitments when another jurisdiction or country is involved.
- Attraction of International Support: International designations, donors, and assistance agencies are more attracted to joint international proposals.
- Unified Response to External Threats: Effective joint response to external threats such as air pollution and inappropriate development.
- Enhanced Customs and Immigration Cooperation: Better collaboration between customs and immigration officials when parks cooperate.
- Efficient Search and Rescue Operations: More efficient and economical search and rescue through joint efforts.
Finally, by joining the Transboundary Parks Programme, you will be part of a prestigious network dedicated to excellence in conservation and international cooperation. This affiliation not only elevates the profile of your Protected Area but also provides access to a wealth of shared knowledge, resources, and support from fellow members committed to preserving Europe’s natural heritage. Join us now and lead the way in sustainable regional development and conservation.
Should you require assistance with the application process or have any questions, please send your queries to Nella Sergejeva.