The work of the Council focuses on providing strategic direction for the activities of the Union, the discussion of specific policy issues and the provision of guidance on finance and the membership development of the Union.

The main functions of Council are to:

  • approve the annual programme and budget developed within the overall framework of activities adopted by the World Conservation Congress; 
  • review regularly, the implementation of the programme; 
  • review the work of the Commissions; 
  • approve the annual report of the Director General and the audited accounts; 
  • admit members and officially recognize National and Regional Committees; and 
  • appoint and evaluate the work of the Director General.

As provided for in the Statutes, the Council appoints Committees to expedite its work. For the current term, Council will be appointing Committees on Finance and Audit, Membership, Programme and Policy and the Preparatory Committee for the next Congress. Other working groups and task forces will be appointed as appropriate.

The Council normally meets twice a year and often works intersessionally with the support of its Committees.