Oman Elected to UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Council

• Oman has been elected to the International Coordinating Council (ICC) of UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme for the 2025–2029 term , marking a major milestone in its global environmental leadership. The election took place during the 43rd UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand, Uzbekistan , and underscores the Sultanate’s growing role in advancing sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience in line with Oman Vision 2040 and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) .

Strengthening Global Environmental Leadership

• Represented by its Environment Authority , Oman’s election to the MAB Council highlights its commitment to promoting ecological balance and responsible natural resource management. The membership allows Oman to contribute to shaping global policies on biosphere conservation , sustainable land use, and scientific cooperation. It also reinforces the Sultanate’s reputation as a proactive advocate for climate action and ecosystem preservation in the Arab region.

Role of UNESCO’s MAB Programme

• The Man and the Biosphere Programme , established in 1971, aims to harmonise the relationship between humans and the environment through scientific research, education, and policy dialogue. The ICC serves as the programme’s decision-making body, overseeing the World Network of Biosphere Reserves , which currently includes more than 700 sites across 134 countries. Oman’s participation will strengthen regional collaboration in promoting sustainable development and nature-based solutions .

Oman’s Track Record in Conservation

• Oman’s Al-Sareen Nature Reserve and Al Jabal Al Akhdar Landscape Reserve are part of UNESCO’s global biosphere network, serving as living laboratories for biodiversity conservation, research, and sustainable tourism. These achievements reflect Oman’s dedication to integrating environmental stewardship with economic and community development.

Exam Pointers

• Elected to: UNESCO MAB Council (2025–2029)

• Conference venue: Samarkand, Uzbekistan

• Oman’s biosphere sites: Al-Sareen, Al Jabal Al Akhdar

• Alignment: Oman Vision 2040 and UN SDGs

Outlook

Oman’s inclusion in the MAB Council enhances its ability to influence global sustainability policy , share regional best practices, and promote eco-innovation and scientific diplomacy . It positions the nation as a key contributor to the international environmental agenda for the coming decade.