The 37th session of the International Co-ordinating Council (MAB-ICC) of UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme was held in Hangzhou, China, from 26 to 28 September 2025. Bulgaria, which is a full member of this highest governing body of the Programme, was represented by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ina Aneva – Scientific Secretary of the Biodiversity, Bioresources and Ecology Division, elected by the UNESCO General Conference for a four-year term.
The Hangzhou session brought together representatives from countries around the world to chart the future of the Man and the Biosphere Programme, discuss strategic priorities and consider proposals for new biosphere reserves. During the sessions, Assoc. Prof. Aneva took part and expressed Bulgaria’s position on issues of the agenda. She welcomed the digitalization of MAB processes and documents and the establishment of the new UNESCO Biodiversity Portal as an important step towards greater transparency, accessibility and knowledge sharing, underlining Bulgaria’s full support for their implementation.
In her speeches, Assoc. Prof. Aneva strongly supported the proposal to create a new thematic network “People for Living Waters”, noting that the protection of water resources is one of the most pressing challenges of our time. She stressed the importance of the network as a key platform for knowledge sharing, strengthening partnerships and mobilizing joint action for the sustainable management and conservation of water ecosystems.
Particular attention was also paid to the presentation, discussion and approval of the new MAB Strategic Action Plan – Hangzhou Action Plan. On behalf of Bulgaria, Assoc. Prof. Aneva pointed out that the document was timely and visionary, strengthening our common commitment to sustainable development, biodiversity conservation and harmonious coexistence between man and nature. She further noted that the plan created a solid foundation for the establishment of biosphere reserves as living laboratories for innovation, education and inclusive governance while being in full alignment with national priorities of green transformation, supporting local communities and preserving natural heritage for future generations.
During the session, a number of proposals for the establishment of new biosphere reserves as well as for the expansion and updating of existing ones were also discussed. Bulgaria’s participation in the 37th session of MAB-ICC confirmed its active role in the global network of biosphere reserves and its contribution to the global dialogue on sustainable development and nature conservation.
