The 9^th annual meeting of the European Goose Management International Working Group (EGM IWG9) successfully concluded in Tromsø, Norway on Thursday, 20 June 2024. Hosted by the Norwegian Environment Agency and chaired by Prof. Petter Kjellander from Sweden, the event brought together national government representatives, experts and key stakeholders.

The meeting was preceded by an EGMP Task Force Day, which featured face-to-face meetings of the various Task Forces under the EGMP, along with an enlightening webinar shedding light on the effects of climate change on migratory geese. For those who missed the webinar, the video recording is available on EGMP YouTube channel.

For a detailed overview of the key developments and management recommendations for the four goose species under the platform, please refer to the Briefing Note on Population status and management recommendations.

The Agriculture and Flight Safety Task Forces, addressing issues spanning the four species under EGMP, received approval for their annual workplans. Further collaboration among Task Forces was encouraged to enhance the exchange of experiences and ideas. The Flight Safety Task Force, established at the previous annual meeting, invited Range States that have not yet designated their representatives to do so promptly.

Looking ahead to the 10^th anniversary of the EGMP in 2026, the participants brainstormed on special activities, including the potential publication of a special issue in a scientific journal. An ad hoc working group was formed to develop detailed proposals and plans for the celebrations.

The Communications Working Group will develop strategies to maximize the value of monitoring data for EGMP's conservation activities, ensuring that the insights gained are effectively communicated to support broader conservation goals.

Alongside the meeting sessions, the hosts organized an engaging evening program, including a field trip to the stunning Sommarøy island and a reception at the Norwegian Institute for Nature Research (NINA). These events offered participants additional opportunities to explore the beautiful Arctic Circle region and to continue their discussions in informal settings.

For more information on the meeting and access to all related documents, please visit the EGM IWG9 webpage. For specific inquiries, contact the AEWA EGMP Coordinator, Mr. Bruno Leles (bruno.leles@un.org).

EGM IWG9 Participants - Group picture at Sommarøy Island

Pink-footed Goose Task Force - EGMP Task Force Day, 17 June 2024

Greenland/Svalbard Barnacle Goose Task Force  - EGMP Task Force Day, 17 June 2024

Dr Ryan Germain from the EGMP Data Centre presenting on results of analysis on potential bias in PfG population counts

EGMP Coordination Unit at EGM IWG9 venue in Tromsø, Norway