News 11 Sep, 2024

10th IUCN Regional Conservation Forum for West Asia Successfully Concludes in Riyadh

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – September 11, 2024 – The 10th IUCN Regional Conservation Forum (RCF) for West Asia, hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and represented by National Center for Wildlife (NCW), concluded today, marking a significant milestone in regional conservation efforts. The forum themed "West Asia Conservation Actions for a Sustainable Future," gathered over 350 representatives from over 30 from IUCN member organizations, government agencies, and various conservation groups to address critical environmental challenges in the region.

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Photo: IUCN ROWA

Over the course of three days, the forum served as a pivotal platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration, featuring a variety of engaging programs and sessions. Participants engaged in discussions and workshops focusing on key topics such as biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and climate change mitigation in arid and hyper-arid landscapes. The contributions of youth and technology, were highlighted throughout the event, showcasing innovative approaches and solutions.

Additionally, the forum presented a vibrant exhibition that displayed a variety of conservation initiatives, technological advancements, and sustainable practices, providing attendees with a dynamic glimpse into the region’s ongoing conservation efforts.

H.E. Razan Al Mubarak, IUCN President, statedAs we conclude this forum, it's evident that the conservation challenges in West Asia demand a unified approach that encompasses not only environmental protection but also broader humanitarian considerations. Our collaborative efforts here are crucial for developing strategies that address both the unique environmental conditions of our region and the well-being of our communities. Together, we are forging a path that integrates nature conservation with sustainable development to tackle these specific challenges.”

Dr. Grethel Aguilar, IUCN Director General emphasized "This forum has provided a platform for West Asia to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. The ideas and commitments shared here reflect our collective ambition to protect biodiversity, mitigate climate change, and foster sustainable development. Together, we are advancing tangible solutions that will shape a more resilient and harmonious future for both nature and people."

Dr. Mohammed Qurban, CEO of NCW, emphasized "The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is fully committed to leading conservation efforts as part of our ambitious 30x30 initiative, which aims to protect 30% of our terrestrial and marine habitats by 2030. This forum has played a vital role in fostering collaborations that align with this vision, uniting various stakeholders to ensure a sustainable and thriving future for our rich biodiversity. Together, we are paving the way for effective conservation strategies that reflect our national priorities and global responsibilities."


Dr. Hany El Shaer, Regional Director of IUCN ROWA stated "The success of this forum lies in the collaborative spirit and dedication of all the participants. Our discussions and outcomes have paved the way for a strengthened, regionally-tailored approach to conservation. This is not just about policies and strategies, but about real actions that will drive sustainable change for West Asia’s ecosystems and communities."

The 10th IUCN Regional Conservation Forum in Saudi Arabia has undoubtedly set the stage for collaborative actions toward sustainable conservation practices in West Asia, reinforcing the need for ongoing dialogue and partnership as the region seeks to navigate its path toward resilient ecosystems and thriving communities.

As we look ahead, this forum serves as a vital stepping stone, paving the way for the highly anticipated IUCN World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi in 2025. The ideas and partnerships forged here will ripple through the global stage, where the world's leading conservationists, policymakers, and innovators will gather to tackle our planet's most pressing environmental challenges.

About IUCN:
IUCN is a membership Union composed of both government and civil society organizations. It harnesses the experience, resources, and reach of its more than 1,400 Member organizations and the input of more than 16,000 experts. IUCN is the global authority on the status of the natural world and the measures needed to safeguard it. www.iucn.org | Twitter

About IUCN ROWA:
The IUCN Regional Office for West Asia (ROWA) is the focal point for IUCN’s work in the region, supporting Members and partners in protecting West Asia's unique biodiversity and promoting sustainable development. ROWA addresses key environmental challenges, fostering a resilient and sustainable future for the region. www.iucn.org/regions/west-asia | Twitter

About the National Center for Wildlife (NCW):
The National Center for Wildlife (NCW) is dedicated to the conservation and management of Saudi Arabia’s biodiversity. NCW promotes sustainable practices and collaborates with partners to ensure the long-term preservation of the Kingdom's natural heritage. Through research, education, and advocacy, NCW supports national and global wildlife protection initiatives. https://t.co/O5gqrk5NPB

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