Statement by Mr. Simon Stiell on World Migratory Bird Day 2025

As we mark World Migratory Bird Day 2025, I am reminded of the delicate balance between human development and the natural world—a balance that is increasingly strained by climate change. Migratory birds are symbols of resilience and connection. Their journeys span continents, linking people, ecosystems, and cultures. But their survival is under threat—from rising temperatures to shrinking habitats, from extreme weather to urban expansion.

At the UNFCCC, we work towards climate action and support Nature-based Solutions. Our cities must become places not just for people, but for nature too. We must design and adapt our urban spaces to be inclusive of biodiversity so that we can create cities that are more resilient to climate shocks and more welcoming to migratory species.

Together, let us take meaningful steps to protect our shared spaces, ensuring a future where both people and nature thrive in harmony.