The CMS Conference of the Parties at its 12th meeting (COP12, Manila, 2017) adopted Resolution 12.9 and Decisions 12.6 – 12.9 on the Establishment of a Review Mechanism and a National Legislation Programme. The National Legislation Programme is a process that encourages Parties to submit information to the Secretariat regarding their legislation and other domestic measures relating to implementation of Article III, paragraphs 4(a) and (b) and 5 and supports the development of national capacities to strengthen domestic legislation.

In response to Decision 12.6 and to assist the Parties in the development of national legislation for prohibiting the taking of Appendix I migratory animals, this document provides recommendations relating to the implementation of Article III, paragraph 5. 

It also provides a Model Law for implementation of Article III, paragraph 5, for Parties that need support in drafting or amending domestic laws.