NAIROBI, Kenya, July 23 – A major global report assessing the state of migratory bird populations will be launched in Nairobi in September, providing fresh scientific evidence expected to shape international conservation efforts and policy commitments.
The State of the World’s Birds Report, published every four years by BirdLife International, will be unveiled on September 11 during the Global Flyways Summit, where governments, scientists and conservation organisations will discuss measures to protect migratory birds and their habitats.
The report will examine global population trends, extinction risks and the condition of critical habitats that support migratory birds along major flyways, drawing on BirdLife International’s scientific data and research.
Migratory birds are considered key indicators of ecosystem health because they depend on interconnected wetlands, forests and other habitats across continents during their annual migrations.
The report is also expected to assess the condition of Key Biodiversity Areas and other important habitats while highlighting growing threats facing migratory species, particularly shorebirds, which are among the world’s most threatened bird groups.
The summit, co-hosted by BirdLife International and Nature Kenya, will culminate in the adoption of the Nairobi Flyways Declaration, a framework intended to guide international cooperation on conserving migratory bird species.
The declaration is expected to outline policy, conservation and financing commitments by governments, conservation organisations and development partners to protect migratory birds and the ecosystems they depend on.
BirdLife International Chief Executive Officer Martin Harper said the report will provide an updated assessment of the status of migratory bird populations while identifying areas where conservation efforts are most urgently needed.
“Migratory birds connect countries, continents and cultures through some of the most remarkable journeys in the natural world. This edition of the State of the World’s Birds will provide an authoritative assessment of how these species are faring and where action is most urgently needed. Just as importantly, it will highlight solutions that are already making a difference. By bringing the latest science together with leaders from around the world in Nairobi, we have an opportunity to turn evidence into action and strengthen commitments to protect migratory birds and their flyways worldwide,” Harper said.
Kenya was selected to host the summit because it lies along the African-Eurasian Flyway, one of the world’s most important migratory routes connecting Africa, Europe and Asia.
Nature Kenya Executive Director Dr Paul Matiku said the country’s location makes it a key partner in international efforts to conserve migratory species.
“Nature Kenya is proud to co-host this important global gathering. As a country situated along the African-Eurasian Flyway, we see first-hand the importance of international cooperation in conserving migratory species. The Global Flyways Summit provides an opportunity for Africa to help lead a global response, one that is informed by science and focused on delivering tangible commitments for birds, biodiversity and people,” Matiku said.
Senior Kenyan government officials, international conservation organisations and development partners are expected to attend the summit, alongside Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado of Japan, President and Global Ambassador of BirdLife International.
The report’s findings are expected to inform discussions on protecting migratory bird populations, restoring critical habitats and strengthening cross-border conservation efforts as countries seek to reverse biodiversity loss and improve ecosystem resilience.
