IUCN and OECS join forces to advance achievement of the Global Biodiversity Framework in the Caribbean

The IUCN’s Regional Office for Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean (IUCN ORMACC) and the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) have launched a new partnership that will strengthen regional science and biodiversity data management across the insular Caribbean. This partnership is supported under the COmmunities, Local OUtcomes and Regional Science (COLOURS) project, funded by the European Union.

IUCN and OECS will focus on enhancing data systems to strengthen reporting on protected areas and biodiversity targets; continue building capacity for effective management and governance of protected and conserved areas and other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs); strengthen networks for enhanced regional cooperation and support the integration of biodiversity and climate action into policy frameworks. 

Building on the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2023, IUCN welcomes the continuation and deepening of its partnership with the OECS and the wider Caribbean region.

“The IUCN–OECS MoU is already delivering tangible results—from reducing marine plastic pollution to strengthening biodiversity governance and the management of protected and conserved areas. We look forward to further strengthening these partnerships and collaborating with Caribbean partners to advance integrated solutions for nature and people, enhancing ecosystem protection, supporting livelihoods, and building resilience across terrestrial, coastal, and marine ecosystems”, stated Ursula Parrilla, IUCN Regional Director for Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean. 

Carlos Rodríguez/Para La Naturaleza

Ursula Parrilla, IUCN Regional Director for Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean, and Dr. Didacus Jules, Director General of the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS)

So far under this collaboration, countries have started exploring the potential for applying IUCN guidelines for recognising other effective area-based conservation measures (OECMs) following participation in a regional workshop to Advance OECMs in the Caribbean held last November. Also, the OECS is hosting and operating the Caribbean Protected Areas Gateway (CPAG) as the region’s Biodiversity Centre of Excellence. The CPAG, will support the use and application of biodiversity knowledge and decision-support tools, and facilitate tailored training for practitioners, policymakers, and decision-makers.

Ultimately, the Centre of Excellence will advance the OECS 30x30 Transformation Programme, support countries in implementing the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, improve biodiversity management, and advance sustainable development across the Caribbean.