---
title: "Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) | Model Diplomat"
description: "The CMS, or Bonn Convention, is the 1979 UN treaty protecting migratory species across borders via Appendix I and II listings. See how it differs from CITES."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/convention-on-migratory-species"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- The CMS is a 1979 intergovernmental treaty under the United Nations Environment Programme that coordinates conservation of migratory animal species across their entire transboundary range.
- How does the CMS differ from CITES?
- What is the practical difference between Appendix I and Appendix II of the CMS?
- Why are the United States and China not parties to the CMS?
- What is the relationship between the CMS and its daughter Agreements like AEWA?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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## Research Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) like a delegate

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## Timeline

1. 23 June 1979

   The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals, commonly called the CMS or the Bonn Convention after the city where it was concluded…

2. 1 November 1983

   The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals, commonly called the CMS or the Bonn Convention after the city where it was concluded…

## Research it like a delegate

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Example

India hosted the 13th Conference of the Parties to the CMS at Gandhinagar in February 2020, adding the Great Indian Bustard, Asian Elephant, and Bengal Florican to Appendix I.

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