IUCN and the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas (WCPA) condemn attack at Upemba National Park

We extend our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the five park staff members who tragically lost their lives in this attack. We also express our solidarity with the staff and rangers of the Institut Congolais pour la Conservation de la Nature (ICCN), who continue to safeguard one of the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s most important protected areas under extremely challenging conditions.

Across the world, rangers and protected area staff work at the forefront of conserving biodiversity and protecting ecosystems that are vital for all of humanity. Too often, they do so at great personal risk. The events at Upemba National Park are a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who dedicate their lives to protecting nature.

IUCN and WCPA reaffirm our commitment to supporting rangers and protected area personnel everywhere, in line with Resolution 101 adopted by IUCN Members at the 2025 IUCN World Conservation Congress. Rangers and park workers are essential to the protection of global biodiversity and the natural heritage upon which communities and future generations depend.

We call on governments, international partners, and the global conservation community to strengthen measures that ensure the safety and protection of rangers and protected area staff, particularly in areas affected by armed conflict. Protected areas must be respected as spaces dedicated to conservation and the common good, and those who defend them must be afforded the protection and recognition they deserve.

IUCN and WCPA stand in solidarity with our partners in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and those affected by this tragic incident, and remain committed to supporting efforts to strengthen the protection, safety, and recognition of rangers worldwide.