Working Group on the Implementation of the Single Species Action Plan for the Angelshark in the Mediterranean

Creation of the Working Group

The Angelshark Working Group (WG) was established following the adoption of Resolution 14.12 Single Species Action Plan for the Angelshark (Squatina squatina) in the Mediterranean Sea at the 14th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to CMS (COP14, Samarkand, 2024). This Resolution endorsed the Single Species Action Plan (SSAP) for the Angelshark in the Mediterranean Sea, developed under the CMS and the Sharks MOU to address severe population declines and critical conservation needs. As part of achieving Action 4.2 of the SSAP, which calls for the establishment of an International Working Group for the Mediterranean, the WG has been established following a call by the Secretariat (CMS Notification 2024/008: Implementation of the Single Species Action Plan for the Angelshark in the Mediterranean Sea Region (SSAP Angelshark Med), dated 15 May 2024). 

The WG was formally set up by Range States during the first meeting in April 2025 to coordinate and monitor the implementation of the SSAP.

Mandate and Scope

The WG  oversees and monitors the implementation of the SSAP. Its work focuses on reducing fisheries-related mortality, protecting key habitats, strengthening legislation and management measures, improving knowledge on population status and ecology, and raising awareness among stakeholders. It also promotes regional cooperation and knowledge exchange, including the use of the Angel Shark Toolbox (Annex IV of the SSAP) developed with partners.

In line with CMS Decisions 14.101–14.105, the WG monitors and reports on SSAP implementation, reviews national progress, and recommends further actions.

Membership

The WG may be composed of two representatives from each Range State, a national government Focal Point accompanied by a national expert, who represent their country. In addition to national representation, the WG comprises experts from the Angel Shark Conservation Network (ASCN). Furthermore, the WG may consider inviting international stakeholders, either as full members or as observers, to contribute to the discussion and implementation efforts. A list of the WG members is provided as UNEP/CMS/Angelshark WG1/Inf.1.

To coordinate the work of the WG, a Chair and a Co-Chair will be elected on a voluntary basis. These individuals will be responsible for overseeing the coordination and progress of the WG's activities, ensuring that the WG functions efficiently and that its efforts align with the objectives of the SSAP. The Chair of the WG will be supported by a designated Coordinator, who will be responsible for the day-to-day coordination and management of the activities of the WG.

Meetings

The first meeting of the Working Group on the Implementation of the Single Species Action Plan for the Angelshark in the Mediterranean Sea took place online from 29-30 April 2025. The meeting discussed institutional matters, established a governance structure to support the implementation of the SSAP, set up a reporting mechanism, reviewed progress made on implementation by Range States, and discussed funding needs for hiring a coordinator to assist the WG.

If funding allows, WG meetings will be convened annually. Before each Conference of the Parties (COP), the WG will meet to assess its progress and review the SSAP. The CMS Secretariat will assist in organizing these meetings at the request of the WG Chair. Typically, these meetings will be held virtually and conducted in English.