The Kyiv (SEA) Protocol, now in force (see which countries are Party to the Protocol; see press release on entry into force), requires its Parties to evaluate the environmental consequences of their official draft plans and programmes.

Strategic environmental assessment (SEA) is undertaken much earlier in the decision-making process than project environmental impact assessment (EIA), and it is therefore seen as a key tool for sustainable development. The Protocol also provides for extensive public participation in government decision-making in numerous development sectors.

The Protocol was adopted by an Extraordinary meeting of the Parties to the Espoo Convention, held on 21 May 2003 during the Ministerial 'Environment for Europe' Conference (Kyiv). Read more about the history of the Protocol »

The Meeting of the Signatories has been the decision-making body under the Protocol pending its entry into force.