The BSAP was developed by a Project Implementation Unit within the Ministry of Nature Protection. The development of the BSAP was initiated in 1997, with financial support from GEF via UNDP. The general approach to the BSAP was in accordance with strategies for economic and social development in Armenia and the principles of the CBD. Guidance in the development of the BSAP was provided from a range of sources, and relevant international expertise was used to ensure that the experience from other countries could be incorporated. International collaboration was provided through the NGO Fauna & Flora International.

A wide range of organisations and individuals have been involved in BSAP development, including representatives of governmental and non-governmental organisations, industry, agriculture and the public sectors. This participatory approach, applied over the duration of project, has allowed viewpoints and feedback from various stakeholders to be represented in the final BSAP, and has been important for its successful completion.

The BSAP was developed between May 1998 and March 1999, with guidance and management from a national Steering Committee and the National Project Director. There are four key stages within the process of BSAP development: (1) analysis of existing situation; (2) identification of strategic objectives and priorities; (3) development of action plan; and (4) implementation of actions. Within each of these stages working groups undertook a number of activities (outlined below). The outputs from different stages of BSAP development were widely discussed at various national and regional meetings and seminars, and were widely broadcast in the media. The following activities were important during BSAP development:

· Identification of major problems, priorities, and criteria for the Biodiversity Strategy, conducted by a number of national consultants and a stakeholder panel.
· Discussion of outputs and further details at regional stakeholder meetings.
· Discussion of the draft list of priorities by the Steering Committee.
· Collection of relevant data by 40 leading specialists, in accordance with the identified priorities.
· Discussion and further planning for strategic aims, objectives and priorities for biodiversity at a national seminar, involving local and international consultants.

The Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan for Armenia includes three sections:

· Section 1 provides an introduction to the Convention on Biological Diversity, the country of Armenia, and the context and process of the BSAP.
· Section 2 describes the current status of biodiversity, priorities for conservation, and direct and indirect impacts on biodiversity in Armenia. In addition, contextual factors relating to biodiversity conservation, including social, economic, institutional and legal issues, are explored.
· Section 3 incorporates the outcome of the BSAP planning process, with the Strategy and Action Plan outlined in detail. The plan integrates activities across different sectors relevant to biodiversity conservation, including legislation, management, research, education and science, biodiversity use, and its regeneration. Practical guidelines are provided for implementation structures.

The BSAP provides a comprehensive background and details of state policy and strategy for biodiversity conservation in the country, including identification of short- and long-term activities. The BSAP document is intended to be of interest to governmental and non-governmental organisations, education and science entities, and international organisations dealing with biodiversity use and conservation, including the donor community.