This Strategy recognised the evolution of Biosphere Reserves from sites focussing on nature conservation and research, to sites of excellence for sustainable development.

UNESCO: UK National Commission for UNESCO - UK supports the development of quality control processes to sharpen the focus of UNESCO Biosphere Reserves

The Director-General, in her opening remarks, stressed the enormous importance of the next Medium-Term Strategy, which should articulate in a compelling fashion the contribution of the Organization to two core challenges: peace and sustainable development.

UNESCO: Senior Management Meeting of 5 June 2012 on the preparation of the next Medium-Term Strategy and the post-2015 environment | United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization