IUCN Regional Conservation Forum for West Asia Opens in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

"Ghadi News"

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by the National Center for Wildlife (NCW), is hosting IUCN’s 10th Regional Conservation Forum (RCF) for West Asia from September 9-11, 2024, in Riyadh. Under the theme "West Asia Conservation Actions for a Sustainable Future", this event brings together IUCN members, donors, government agencies, conservation organizations, and local communities to address environmental challenges in the region.

The IUCN West Asia Regional Conservation Forum, held every four years, serves as an important platform for knowledge exchange and partnership-building in West Asia. This year's forum aims to align regional conservation efforts with global environmental goals, focusing on the need to protect biodiversity, promote sustainable development, and combat climate change in arid and hyper-arid regions.

IUCN President Razan Al Mubarak emphasized the forum's significance, stating, "As we convene at the West Asia Regional Conservation Forum, we have a unique opportunity to reflect on our achievements and plan for a sustainable future. This forum is essential for shaping our collective strategy leading up to the World Conservation Congress in Abu Dhabi in October 2025, reinforcing our commitment to a world where nature and people coexist harmoniously."

IUCN Director General Dr. Grethel Aguilar emphasized the importance of the Forum in shaping the global conservation agenda: "This Regional Conservation Forum is a vital opportunity for our Members in West Asia to voice their perspectives and influence the direction of the Union's work. With biodiversity declining at an unprecedented rate, the need for coordinated, impactful action has never been greater. United, we can achieve a healthy planet where people and nature thrive."

Dr. Mohammed Qurban, CEO of NCW, expressed enthusiasm for the event: "We are proud to host the 10th IUCN Regional Conservation Forum in Saudi Arabia. This forum highlights our dedication to biodiversity conservation and sustainable development. Together with our partners, we aim to tackle pressing environmental issues and create actionable strategies that will benefit both our ecosystems and communities."

The forum will feature a diverse program, including plenary sessions, workshops, and side events aimed at fostering collaboration and innovation. Participants will engage with IUCN experts on the latest conservation tools and policies, ensuring regional strategies are informed by best practices.

Dr. Hany El Shaer, IUCN ROWA Regional Director, added, "This forum is a testament to our commitment to conservation and sustainability in West Asia. We look forward to working with our members and partners to drive meaningful change in the region."

The forum is expected to attract over 350 representatives from IUCN member organizations, government agencies, donors, and partner institutions, with additional participation through virtual platforms. The event will culminate in a roadmap for conservation actions in West Asia, outlining key priorities and strategies for the next four years and beyond.


source:iucn.org