MedPAN is a network that brings together organizations and institutions involved in the management of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in the Mediterranean. This network, which also operates as a non-profit organization, has existed since 1990 but was formally institutionalized only in late 2008 in Marseille, France. Its mission is to promote effective management of MPAs and to safeguard the marine ecosystems and biodiversity of the Mediterranean Sea.
Marine Protected Areas are slices of sea and coast placed under protection and managed because of their ecological importance. Through effective management, they protect the amazing marine life of the Mediterranean, ensuring the livelihoods of fishermen, stimulating the local economy and offering tourists the opportunity to rekindle their links with nature.
MedPAN
What does this non-profit organization do?
MedPAN’s activities focus on improving knowledge about MPAs, developing tools for analysis and monitoring, strengthening the capacities of its members, and carrying out advocacy at both European and Mediterranean levels.
Since its foundation, MedPAN has consistently supported MPA managers through a variety of tools and activities aimed at improving management effectiveness. In collaboration with UNEP/MAP-SPA/RAC, MedPAN developed the MAPAMED database, which provides a comprehensive overview of MPAs in the Mediterranean. The updated second version of the database, published in 2019, covers 1,087 MPAs and is accessible via the online MAPAMED Viewer.
Every four years, MedPAN also produces the Mediterranean MPA Status Report, which assesses the state and effectiveness of the region’s MPA network. In addition, it regularly organizes forums, workshops, and training sessions for its members to strengthen their capacities, encourage knowledge exchange, and foster collaboration within the network.
Why is Sunce a member of the network?
Today, the network consists of 84 members, 8 founding organizations, and 49 partner organizations from 21 Mediterranean countries. Sunce has been a partner organization of MedPAN since 2008, sharing its vision of protecting marine ecosystems, strengthening the capacity of local managers, and applying best practices in biodiversity conservation.
We regularly participate in MedPAN activities and have actively collaborated on several projects, which have further strengthened our internal capacities for MPA management. As a member, we also take part in knowledge exchange and use tools such as the MAPAMED database to more effectively protect the Adriatic Sea and contribute to MedPAN’s regional objectives.