Global Nature Protection Initiative Launched at IUCN Council Meeting

Post by : Bianca Suleiman

Her Excellency Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak led the 117th IUCN Council meeting in Gland, marking the initiation of a renewed global effort to safeguard nature, protect biodiversity, and avert species extinction.

This meeting signals the start of implementing key outcomes from the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025, which will take place in Abu Dhabi in October 2025. During the congress, member entities reached a consensus on a unified global conservation strategy and re-elected Al Mubarak as President for a second term.

As the oldest and largest global environmental network, IUCN encompasses over 1,600 member organizations along with more than 18,000 scientists. The organization is dedicated to protecting ecosystems, conservation of species, and promoting the sustainable management of natural resources by bridging governments, researchers, and communities.

The Abu Dhabi congress marks a pivotal moment for international conservation, launching the “Abu Dhabi Call to Action” along with a 20-year Strategic Vision and Programme of Work for 2026–2029. These initiatives are designed to accelerate progress toward achieving global biodiversity objectives in this crucial decade.

During the Gland meeting, the council aimed at translating these promises into actionable measures. Key discussions revolved around establishing priorities, pinpointing impactful areas, and enhancing methods to evaluate progress in biodiversity and species conservation.

The council also validated the responsibilities of its various committees, which will monitor the execution of programs, financial governance, and accountability measures. This step is crucial as IUCN amplifies its efforts against escalating environmental challenges worldwide.

Al Mubarak stressed the pressing need for immediate action, indicating that biodiversity decline is closely interlinked with economic stability, food provision, and long-term development. She called for improved coordination among scientific research, policy-making, and practical implementation.

IUCN Director General Grethel Aguilar accentuated the crucial moment for shifting from commitments to concrete outcomes, leveraging IUCN's global network and scientific resources.

Additionally, the council explored avenues to assist nations by enhancing access to science-driven tools, data, and guidelines, aiding countries in effectively protecting ecosystems, conserving wildlife, and restoring biodiversity.

In the face of escalating environmental issues, IUCN's global strategy continues to be vital for delivering practical and scalable solutions. The organization is now poised to advance with a robust action-oriented approach, aiming for measurable advancements in ecosystem protection and sustainable development.

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