Panama is preparing to assume a leading role in the conservation of sea turtles at the international level, after being selected as the venue for the 13th Conference of the Parties (COP13) of the Inter-American Convention for the Protection and Conservation of Sea Turtles (CIT), an event that will take place in June 2028.

This designation, according to the Minister of the Environment, Juan Carlos Navarro, is a recognition of Panama’s commitment to the protection of these threatened species and opens the doors for other large-scale international meetings.

During a recent visit to the country, the secretary of the CIT, Verónica Cáceres Chamorro, was impressed by the community projects focused on the conservation of sea turtles. Initiatives such as “Tortuguías” and “TortuBanks”, which have the support of the Ministry of the Environment (MiAMBIENTE), have demonstrated the effectiveness of collaboration between communities and the government in the protection of nests and the management of nurseries.

Another outstanding project is “Turtugas de la City”, where children are actively involved in conservation through activities such as beach cleaning and education on sustainable fishing. These young people, known as the “Mangrove Friends”, also raise awareness in the community about the importance of reducing light pollution, a significant threat to sea turtles.

Secretary Cáceres praised these efforts, describing them as examples of patriotism and good practices in conservation. For his part, the Deputy Minister of the Environment, Óscar Vallarino, highlighted the crucial role of communities and civil organizations in the success of these initiatives, as well as the constant work of the ministry in technical support and the implementation of management plans.

COP13 is presented as a unique opportunity for Panama to show the world the progress made in the protection of sea turtles and to strengthen international alliances in favor of these endangered species.