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Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, President of IUCN, reflects on the Union’s achievements during her first term, highlights the development of IUCN’s first-ever 20-year strategy, and calls on Members to unite for nature, climate, and people ahead of the IUCN World Conservation Congress, which is taking place October 9 to 15 in Abu Dhabi, UAE:
“What makes IUCN unique is not only its history, but its people. As President, I have witnessed the energy and commitment of our Members—scientists, governments, civil society, Indigenous Peoples, and communities—coming together with a shared purpose.
I’ve seen this spirit in so many places: Washington, Kenya, Guatemala, Switzerland, and West Asia. Each moment reminded me of the power of our Union.
My leadership is grounded in the belief that conservation must be strategic, inclusive, and collaborative—integrating nature into climate action while empowering Indigenous Peoples, women, youth, and local communities to shape global solutions.
In my first term, we strengthened IUCN’s voice on the global stage, advanced Indigenous participation and youth leadership, improved governance and transparency, and expanded partnerships that bring new energy and resources to our Union.
Looking ahead, we have prepared, through broad consultation, IUCN’s first-ever 20-year strategy and the new 4-year programme of work. Both will be considered by Members at the Congress, charting a bold path to 2045 and setting priorities for the years ahead.
As I seek a second term as President, I remain committed to a Union that is strategic, inclusive, and effective—delivering real impact for nature and people. That means ensuring our strategy lives in action, upholding good governance, serving all Members with science and policy leadership, and deepening partnerships that keep nature at the center of global decisions.
This is our moment to unite for nature, climate, and people.
I look forward to welcoming you to the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi, from the 9th to the 15th of October, 2025. Through the Forum, Exhibition, and Members’ Assembly, we will share ideas, debate motions, and elect the next IUCN Council—shaping the future of conservation together.
Thank you.”