Join Western Balkans thematic groups on biodiversity conservation and ecosystem restoration

The Thematic Group on Biodiversity Conservation (TG-BC) and the Thematic Group on Ecosystem Restoration (TG-ER) will support the implementation of key frameworks under the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans, ensuring that decisions are grounded in science, experience, and regional realities. Some of the key documents experts will help shape are, among others, the Western Balkans:

• Biodiversity Report;
• 2030 Biodiversity Strategic Plan;
• Biodiversity Monitoring and Evaluation Framework;
• Restoration Opportunities Assessment Report; and
• Forest Landscape Restoration Plan.

Each Thematic Group will provide technical and scientific input aligned with national, EU, and global frameworks, offering guidance for the planning, monitoring, and implementation of biodiversity and ecosystem restoration strategies. They will foster regional cooperation by engaging academia, government institutions, civil society, and other stakeholders, while also serving as a platform for knowledge exchange, professional dialogue, and the visibility of regional expertise.

Who can apply?

We are inviting recognised experts from across the Western Balkans to express their interest in contributing to one or both groups in their expert capacity. Membership is voluntary. For the Thematic Group on Biodiversity Conservation (TG-BC), we are seeking expertise in biodiversity policy, species and habitat protection, monitoring and evaluation, and the management of protected area networks. For the Thematic Group on Ecosystem Restoration (TG-ER), relevant expertise includes restoration ecology (e.g. forests, wetlands, grasslands), Nature-based Solutions, such as Forest Landscape Restoration (FLR), land-use and spatial planning.

The aim is to involve experts from academia and research institutions; civil society; governmental/intergovernmental bodies; private sector (involved in conservation or restoration); and the international/regional organisations active in the region. Preference will be given to individuals with experience in cross-sectoral collaboration. We expect to include at least two members per Western Balkan economy, subject to availability of qualified candidates, and to cover key ecological sub-regions (e.g., coastal zones, mountain systems, river basins).

Endorsements or references from recognised institutions are optional but encouraged. The selection process will use a standardised evaluation matrix and allow for phased recruitment to address emerging gaps, with final endorsement of members made by the BDTF WB.

Members will have the opportunity to contribute to regional policy development and implementation, engage with a community of experts across the region and within IUCN’s global networks, and participate in regional and international dialogues, workshops, and events. Their contributions will be acknowledged in BDTF WB and IUCN publications and strategic documents. IUCN will provide secretariat and logistical support, including dedicated platforms for coordination, communication, and document sharing.

How to apply?

Please review the Terms of Reference (ToR) and Selection criteria for the two Thematic Groups:

• Thematic Group on Biodiversity Conservation (TG-BC) ToR
• TG-BC Selection criteria
• Thematic Group on Ecosystem Restoration (TG-ER) ToR
• TG-ER Selection criteria

To express interest, kindly send your CV and brief motivation letter indicating the group you wish to join to [email protected] with a subject: BDTF WB Regional Thematic Groups, by 30 June 2025. We look forward to your application and to working together in advancing nature conservation and restoration in the Western Balkans.

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This call is opened as part of two initiatives: 

• Greening the Western Balkans builds on existing regional structures and leverages the Biodiversity Task Force for the Western Balkans (BDTF WB) as a key coordination platform, aiming to foster collaboration between governments, conservation organisations, and policymakers to ensure a cohesive and impactful conservation agenda across the region. Supported by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA). 
• ADAPT 2.0: Nature-based Solutions for Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation in the Western Balkans aims to enhance the understanding and implementation of NbS for climate change mitigation and adaptation while promoting their integration into regional policies and practices. Funded by Sweden.