Eastern Europe and Central Asia

A region highly diverse, both in its culture, traditions and languages and in its natural values and ecological features. To help build a more sustainable future, IUCN focuses on good governance, protection of biodiversity and effective and equitable use of natural resources, while advocating diverse partnerships and dialogue, and linking science, policy and action.

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A   highly diverse region

The region harbors four biodiversity hotspots, the world’s most biodiverse and threatened areas. Spanning the North Pacific, the Arctic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, encompassing the steppes, deserts and mountains of Central Asia, the lush forests of South Caucasus and the karst ecosystems, underground freshwater and wetlands of the Western Balkans - this vast region hosts an exceptional
array of globally important and threatened species. It is known for the presence of some of the most iconic large mammals, such as the Siberian Tiger, Snow and Persian Leopards, Polar Bear, European Bison, Saiga Antelope, Argali Sheep, Orca or Beluga Whale. 

8 of 14

world biomes
Description

are found in our region

963

species in the region
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are threatened with extinction

about 4.17%

of the global population
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inhabits the region

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Press release

IUCN Regional Conservation Forum paves the way for innovative conservation…

Bruges, Belgium, 30 September 2024 – The IUCN Regional Conservation Forum (RCF) for Europe, North, and Central Asia opened today in Bruges, Belgium. The event brings together over 400 participants, including representatives from…

Meet our members and partners in the region

Besides being our key partners in action, the Members are shaping our regional direction and work plan. Strengthening and enlarging our membership and knowledge base remains one of our priorities in the region.