Armenia is set to nominate the area surrounding Dilijan National Park as a candidate for inclusion in the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Network, Deputy Minister of Environment Aram Meymaryan announced during the 37th session of the UNESCO “Man and the Biosphere” Programme (MAB-ICC), held in Hangzhou, China, on September 25, 2025, reports EcoLur.
He noted that botanical, zoological, and socio-economic studies are already being carried out in the selected area, and that a clear division of functions is planned with core, buffer, and transition zones. The initiative is being implemented through cooperation among state bodies, local communities, and international partners.
Meymaryan also presented Armenia’s national position, emphasizing the country’s readiness to strengthen science-based management of protected areas, increase community engagement and education, promote nature-based solutions, and ensure the participation of women, youth, local self-government bodies, and communities.
If approved, this would mark Armenia’s first-ever nomination to the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Network, establishing the Dilijan region as a model for sustainable development, biodiversity conservation, and inclusive environmental governance.
