Post by : Badri Ariffin

Her Excellency Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak chaired the 117th IUCN Council assembly in Gland, signaling the commencement of a global initiative to protect nature, safeguard biodiversity, and avert species extinction.

This meeting marks the start of IUCN's efforts to action decisions made during the IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025, which is set to take place in Abu Dhabi in October 2025. During that congress, member organizations agreed on a unified global strategy for conservation while re-electing Al Mubarak for a second term as President.

As the world's largest and oldest environmental network, IUCN comprises over 1,600 member organizations and more than 18,000 scientific experts dedicated to protecting ecosystems, conserving species, and encouraging sustainable resource use through collaboration among governments, scientists, and communities.

The Abu Dhabi congress was a pivotal moment in global conservation efforts, launching the "Abu Dhabi Call to Action" alongside a 20-year Strategic Vision and a Programme of Work for 2026–2029, aimed at accelerating the achievement of global biodiversity targets during this crucial decade.

At the Gland meeting, council members discussed transforming these commitments into actionable steps, focusing on prioritizing initiatives, pinpointing areas for immediate impact, and enhancing monitoring systems for biodiversity and species protection.

The council also ratified the roles of its various committees, which will oversee the implementation of programs, management of finances, and governance, ensuring accountability as IUCN escalates its initiatives to address mounting environmental challenges globally.

Al Mubarak emphasized the urgent need for action, noting that the decline in biodiversity is directly correlated with economic stability, food security, and developmental sustainability. She highlighted the importance of synchronizing science, policy, and practical execution.

IUCN Director General Grethel Aguilar reiterated the importance of transitioning from commitments to tangible outcomes, leveraging IUCN’s expansive network and scientific insights.

The council also explored ways to assist countries in accessing science-driven tools, data, and guidelines, aimed at enhancing efforts to protect ecosystems, conserve wildlife, and rejuvenate biodiversity effectively.

As global environmental issues intensify, IUCN’s international approach is vital in delivering viable and scalable solutions. The organization is poised to advance its commitments with a renewed focus on action, aspiring to achieve significant advancements in nature protection and sustainable development.

#Global News #UAE News #Abu Dhabi News #Abu Dhabi