The Great Bustard is one of the most endangered birds in Europe. In large regions of its traditional European range the species has already vanished. Without active protection measures, the species is doomed to disappear. The remaining population is dispersed in several small populations and many animals migrate.

Based on recommendations of the CMS Scientific Council and the Conference of the Parties (Rec. 4.2, Nairobi 1994), the Secretariat with assistance from experts in international law and zoology has drafted a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at conserving the middle European population of this species. The proposal (comprising drafts of the MoU and a well-structured Action Plan) is being submitted for discussion to the authorities of the Range States and the relevant international governmental and non-governmental organizations.