Global Wetland Outlook (GWO) report 2025

The 2025 Global Wetland Outlook (GWO) report, released by the Secretariat of the Convention on Wetlands (the Ramsar Convention), indicates a widespread deterioration of “wetland ecological character” across most regions globally. The report particularly highlights a high extent of deterioration in Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

Key Findings from the Report:

• Global Deterioration: There is a widespread and concerning deterioration of wetland ecological character globally.
• Highly Affected Regions: The extent of degradation is particularly high in:
  • Africa
  • Latin America
  • The Caribbean
• Main Drivers of Degradation by Region:
  • Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean: The three most important drivers of wetland degradation and loss are urbanization, industrial development, and infrastructure development.
  • North America and Oceania: In these regions, invasive species were identified as a larger concern for wetland health.
  • Europe: Concerns regarding drought were highlighted as the main cause of wetland degradation.
• Link to Economic Status: The report observes a strong correlation between the condition of the world’s remaining wetlands and the economic status of countries.
  • Wetland ecosystems are in the worst current condition in Least Developed Countries (LDCs), with considerably more wetlands reported to be in a poor state than in a good state.