IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025

IUCN World Conservation Congress 2025
  • Context  

  • Against the backdrop of a triple planetary crisis (biodiversity loss, pollution, climate change) compounded by geopolitical unrest, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) convened its World Conservation Congress to address urgent environmental challenges and shape the global conservation agenda 

  • When & Where:  

  • It was held from October 9-15, 2025, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, United Arab Emirates (UAE). 

  • Theme: Powering transformative conservation 

  • Key Outcomes & Decisions: 

  • IUCN World Heritage Outlook 2025:  

  • It revealed a decline in the positive conservation outlook for natural World Heritage sites (down to 57% from 62% in 2020), citing threats like climate change and invasive species. 

  • New Commissions:  

  • The Climate Crisis Commission (CCC) was renamed the Climate Action Commission (CAC) 

  • Zimbabwe Reinstated:  

  • Zimbabwe rejoined IUCN as a state member.